Arne Slot has acknowledged that one Liverpool player “found it tough” and “struggled” during the match against Sunderland
Arne Slot has acknowledged that one of his Liverpool players “found it difficult” during Wednesday night’s 1-1 draw with Sunderland.
Cody Gakpo has been one of the most regularly used players this season, with only three teammates starting more Premier League matches. He’s also one of just four Reds to feature in all 14 league games so far (WhoScored).
However, the 26-year-old endured a disappointing evening at Anfield and was replaced at half-time, with Mo Salah coming on after being left unused in the win over West Ham. Slot recently praised the Egyptian’s attitude despite that previous benching.
Slot reveals why he took Gakpo off
Speaking after the Sunderland match, Slot was asked why he made the change. The Liverpool manager didn’t hold back in his explanation.
He said (via liverpoolfc.com): “I felt Cody was having a hard time winning his one-v-ones. They pressed us high at times but also dropped into a low block, and in those situations you need either a moment of inspiration or a set piece to break through.
“In the first half, Cody wasn’t able to produce that moment. He struggled to beat his man or deliver crosses.”
A tough night for Gakpo
Although Gakpo worked hard, he struggled to make an impact in possession and frequently looked frustrated.
According to Sofascore, he lost four of his five duels, made only seven completed passes, failed to complete a dribble and delivered just one accurate cross.
Meanwhile, his direct opponent, Nordi Mukiele, impressed despite his unfortunate own goal, winning all five of his duels, making three tackles and clearing the ball five times.
Gakpo had shone against West Ham with a goal and an assist, but little went his way against Sunderland, prompting Slot to make an early change.
It now remains to be seen whether the Dutchman keeps his place for Saturday’s game against Leeds, or if Slot opts for the second-half setup from last night, potentially starting Florian Wirtz on the left to fit in Dominik Szoboszlai and Mo Salah.
