January enrollment Cody Gakpo described his first few weeks as a Liverpool player after joining from PSV Eindhoven
Cody Gakpo acknowledges that Jurgen Klopp’s side’s poor form is making his transition to Liverpool more difficult.
Gakpo has only won once since joining the club from PSV Eindhoven last month on a cost that might total £44 million.
In six starts, the forward has yet to provide a goal or an assist, making him the slowest effect of any big-money Reds forward addition under Klopp’s tenure.
But the Holland international is determined to make an impact and has claimed that he has regular contact with Liverpool manager Klopp.
“It’s always odd coming into a squad that was maybe first and winning every game, but is now in a little bit of a difficult situation,” Gakpo remarked.
“So for me, it’s coming in and showing what I can. If we were in the first place, I’d have to do it again, and since we’re in a different place, I’d have to do it again. I simply strive to present my best self.
“The coach greeted me warmly, which I greatly enjoyed. We had a wonderful talk, and now he is assisting me in adjusting to the team and his playing style as quickly as possible. To achieve so, I must continue to work hard and improve.”
Gakpo, who will be hoping to preserve his spot in the Merseyside derby against Everton at Anfield on Monday, has spent his Reds career playing both down the center of the attack and, as he did last weekend against Wolverhampton Wanderers, on the left flank.
And the 23-year-old is certain of where he is best suited right now. “I am a player with a straightforward style of play, a hard worker, and a winner,” he explained. “I’m an offensive player who can dribble, score, and assist. It’s a valuable asset to be able to play several positions, but in the end, I believe every player has a favorite position and may be best at that position.
“For the time being, I prefer to play on the left wing because that is what I am used to, but perhaps I will develop better in another position and then play there.
In the FA Cup, I played in the middle for Wolves and against Chelsea. It appeals to me. It’s closer to the goal’s center. Because I’m not used to it, I’ll have to grow into it. I’m not sure if I’ll end up there, but (former Holland national team manager) Louis van Gaal said I’d end up in the middle, so maybe.”
Gakpo has been added to the Walk On emagazine: “I had a different style of play in Holland, so I’m learning about exerting pressure and rushing back. I’m learning a lot and ready to learn even more, so I’m having a great time. Everyone on this team is really talented, and we have a fantastic team. I want to play with and against the best players because it will only help me progress as a player.”
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