Liverpool star continues redemption arc with performance against Spurs

Liverpool star continues redemption arc with performance against Spurs Cody Gakpo’s Liverpool Revival Under Andoni Iraola Leaves Tottenham Ruing Missed Move Cody Gakpo’s resurgence is quickly becoming one of the most important early storylines of Liverpool’s season, with the Liverpool Echo highlighting how differently things might have turned out. Had Tottenham got their wish, the Dutch forward would have been lining up for the opposition rather than driving Liverpool towards Wembley in a deserved Carabao Cup win. The report states that “Had Tottenham Hotspur got their way, Cody Gakpo would have been lining up against Liverpool here rather than helping them take their first step towards Wembley.” It also adds that Manchester City “were willing to spend £85million on Gakpo”, but Liverpool’s inability to land a new right-winger in the summer meant both clubs “ultimately had to look elsewhere.” That twist now looks hugely significant. Gakpo has emerged as a central figure in the opening phase of Andoni Iraola’s reign, offering thrust, end product and an edge in one-on-one battles. As Echo notes, “how Liverpool have benefited from the circumstances that saw the Dutchman not only stay, but also subsequently emerge as their key player during the formative stages of Andoni Iraola’s tenure.” IMAGO | Anfield Index Gakpo performance sets tone Against Tottenham, Gakpo was at the heart of Liverpool’s best attacking moments. He was influential in the opening goal, moving infield before finding Rio Ngumoha, with Alexis Mac Allister finishing smartly from range. After the break, he delivered the standout moment, when he received a return pass from Mac Allister, shifted on to his right foot and finished decisively into the far corner. Echo described the turnaround well: “Rare has redemption been so rapid.” Only months ago, Gakpo had been one of the players feeling the weight of supporter frustration as Liverpool struggled badly before the end of Arne Slot’s tenure. Now the mood has changed entirely, with the Kop chanting his name during the second half. Liverpool left wing now looks settled There is substance behind the praise. “Gakpo now has two goals and four assists in five appearances this season,” a return that underlines both consistency and influence. The competition on the left has intensified following the arrivals of Victor Munoz and “£123million man Bradley Barcola”, yet Gakpo has responded exactly as Liverpool would have hoped. Just as notable was the physical element of his display. “Tottenham defenders regularly bouncing off his tall frame” captured the duel-heavy nature of his evening, and that side of his game appears particularly suited to Iraola’s demands. Intensity, directness and aggression are being rewarded. Our View From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this is exactly the sort of development that can shift a season. Gakpo always looked like a player with the tools, the size, the technique, the finishing ability, but confidence and clarity are everything at this level. Right now, he looks like a forward who knows precisely what is expected of him and is enjoying delivering it. The most pleasing part is that this does not feel accidental. Iraola clearly wants wide players to be brave, physical and decisive, and Gakpo ticks every box when he plays with conviction. If he keeps attacking defenders, driving into central areas and backing his shot, Liverpool will have a major weapon on that left side. There is also something satisfying in the wider context. Tottenham wanted him, Manchester City were prepared to pay heavily for him, and Liverpool have ended up with the player thriving in red. That matters. Elite clubs identified his value, but Liverpool are now the ones collecting the rewards. Supporters will also love the speed of the turnaround. To go from frustration to hearing the Kop sing your name says everything about how quickly football can change when performances improve. If this is the version of Gakpo Liverpool are getting consistently, then the competition for places up front suddenly looks like a real strength. On this evidence, he is not merely recovering his standing, he is becoming one of the first names supporters want to see on the teamsheet. Source: Echo