Arsenal legend Paul Merson does not think Cody Gakpo can continue playing in midfield for Liverpool.
Jurgen Klopp started Cody Gakpo in the middle of the park in Liverpool‘s 1-1 draw with Chelsea last weekend, but Merson has his doubts about the 24-year-old being able to succeed there.
In his Sportskeeda column, the Sky Sports pundit wrote: “Cody Gakpo played in midfield last weekend. I don’t think it’s a long-term solution and I don’t think Klopp is looking at it like that either.
“They looked much better when Harvey Elliott came on.”
Liverpool are looking to fix their midfield problem by bringing in Wataru Endo from Stuttgart, though he may not be signed in time for their game against Bournemouth on Saturday.
According to Sky Sports, the Reds have made a bid of around £16m for the Japan international.
Klopp could now start Elliott for the visit of Bournemouth or go with Gakpo in midfield again.
Cody Gakpo belongs in Liverpool’s forward line
Gakpo playing in midfield feels like a bit of a waste. On his day, he is a really dangerous forward and has shown that at Liverpool.
The Netherlands international scored seven goals in 21 Premier League appearances last season, which is a pretty good return for an attacker who arrived during the January transfer window.
Two of those strikes came against Liverpool’s rivals Manchester United, showing that Gakpo can deliver in the big games.
All in all, then, Klopp has to move Gakpo, who cost the Reds an initial £35m, back to attack as soon as possible.
There is a lot of competition for a spot in Liverpool’s forward line right now, with Klopp having the likes of Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz to call upon. But Gakpo definitely has enough talent to succeed on the flank or up front at Anfield.
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