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Tag: Cody Gakpo

Liverpool vs Wolves: Preview, Team News & Key Stats
Liverpool’s pursuit of Premier League glory continues on Sunday when Wolverhampton Wanderers visit Anfield.

The Reds dropped points in dramatic fashion against Everton in midweek, while Wolves come into this fixture on the back of a solid FA Cup win over Blackburn Rovers. With Arsenal winning their game on Saturday, Liverpool’s lead at the top is now just four points, meaning victory is crucial to maintaining their advantage in the title race.

Liverpool vs Wolves: Match Preview

Liverpool were seconds away from extending their lead at the top, only for Everton’s James Tarkowski to score a 98th-minute equalizer in the Merseyside derby. The heated contest also saw Curtis Jones and Arne Slot receive red cards after the final whistle.

Despite the disappointment, Liverpool still control their own destiny in the title race. However, their form has been inconsistent, winning just two of their last five matches in all competitions, including an FA Cup exit to Plymouth Argyle. Anfield is still a fortress, but they have already suffered a rare home league defeat this season, losing to Nottingham Forest.

Wolves arrive at Anfield with renewed confidence after back-to-back 2-0 wins against Aston Villa and Blackburn Rovers. However, their away form in the Premier League is concerning, collecting just one point from their last three road games and keeping only two away clean sheets in 2024.

Liverpool won the reverse fixture 2-1 at Molineux in September, continuing their dominance over Wolves. The visitors have not won at Anfield in the Premier League since 2010, and breaking that streak will be a huge challenge.

Team News

Arne Slot is waiting on the availability of Cody Gakpo ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield. The Dutch forward picked up a knock in the second half of the Merseyside derby and was forced off.

Slot confirmed in his pre-match press conference that Gakpo will be assessed before Sunday’s match. Trent Alexander-Arnold returned to action at Goodison Park after missing two games and is set to be involved again. If selected, the right-back will make his 250th career appearance for Liverpool in the Premier League.

Joe Gomez and Tyler Morton remain unavailable due to injury, while Curtis Jones will serve a one-match suspension after receiving a second yellow card following the final whistle against Everton. Slot confirmed that Alexander-Arnold’s minutes were managed on Wednesday and he has resumed full training.

Wolves boss Vitor Pereira reported that he has no fresh injury concerns ahead of the trip to Anfield. Hwang Hee-chan had to be substituted at halftime during Wolves’ 2-0 FA Cup win over Blackburn Rovers and remains a doubt.

Recent absentees include Leon Chiwome, Jorgen Strand Larsen, and Boubacar Traore, while Sasa Kalajdzic, Enso Gonzalez, and Yerson Mosquera are dealing with long-term injuries. Pereira stated that Wolves will not simply sit back and defend, but will look to impose their style of play at Anfield.
- Key Stats
  Liverpool have won 12 of their last 14 matches against Wolves in all competitions.
  
  Liverpool have scored at least 2 goals in 16 of their last 17 matches (Premier League).
  
  Liverpool are undefeated in their last 20 matches (Premier League).
  
  15 goals have been scored in the last six meetings between these two teams.
With the title race tightening up, Liverpool cannot afford another slip-up, while Wolves will be desperate to pull away from the relegation battle. An intense clash awaits at Anfield.
February 15, 2025
Cody Gakpo Doubtful for Liverpool vs Wolves

Cody Gakpo is a major doubt for Liverpool’s Premier League clash against Wolves on Sunday after picking up a knock in the Merseyside derby against Everton. The Dutch forward was substituted in the 69th minute and is now a concern for manager Arne Slot.

Slot confirmed the news during his pre-match press conference, stating, “Cody is a doubt. He got a knock, so let’s see how he is today.” If Gakpo is ruled out, Darwin Nunez or Diogo Jota could step into the starting lineup, with Luis Diaz likely shifting to the left wing.

Liverpool are already without Curtis Jones due to suspension, while Joe Gomez (hamstring) and Tyler Morton (shoulder) remain sidelined. On a positive note, Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to start after making his return in midweek following a spell on the sidelines.

Gakpo’s potential absence is a significant blow for Liverpool. The 24-year-old has been one of the team’s standout performers this season, contributing 16 goals and five assists in 36 appearances across all competitions. His versatility as both a winger and a forward has made him a key player in Slot’s system.

If Gakpo misses the match, Slot may need to reshuffle his attack. Diaz’s move to the left wing could address his recent struggles in a central role, while Nunez or Jota would provide a direct replacement up front.

February 14, 2025
Liverpool 4-0 Tottenham: Player Ratings as Reds Cruise into Carabao Cup Final

Liverpool delivered a dominant 4-0 performance against Tottenham to seal their spot in the Carabao Cup final, with a 4-1 aggregate win. It was a night of great individual performances, with Cody Gakpo, Mohamed Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Virgil van Dijk all finding the net. The Reds were relentless from the first whistle, dominating possession and creating chances at will.

Here’s how the players rated after an unforgettable night at Anfield.

Player | Rating

GK: Caoimhin Kelleher – 7.2/10
Kelleher had little to do in terms of shot-stopping but was solid with his distribution and overall contribution in goal.

RB: Conor Bradley – 8.5/10
Stepped in confidently for Trent Alexander-Arnold, constantly overlapping and offering a strong presence at both ends of the pitch. His key tackle on Son and his attack-minded play earned him a well-deserved rating.

CB: Ibrahima Konaté – 7.6/10
A solid display from Konaté. Though his passing invited some pressure, he was composed defensively and handled Spurs’ attack well.

CB: Virgil van Dijk – 8.4/10
Dominated in the air and on the ground. His leadership was evident, and he capped off his performance with a towering header for Liverpool’s fourth goal. A rock at the back.

LB: Andrew Robertson – 7.9/10
Robertson kept Dejan Kulusevski at bay while linking up well with Gakpo. His defensive work was solid, and he supported the attack when needed.

CM: Curtis Jones – 7.7/10
Brought in for Mac Allister, Jones was steady in his defensive duties and linked well with Gravenberch. While his attacking contributions weren’t as high, he was solid in the midfield battle.

CM: Ryan Gravenberch – 8.2/10
Gravenberch was influential, winning loose balls and linking the play effectively. His work in the midfield helped drive Liverpool forward, setting up Gakpo’s opener.

RM: Mohamed Salah – 8.9/10
Salah was a constant threat, setting up Gakpo for the opening goal and converting his penalty with ease. His vision and passing were superb throughout.

AM: Dominik Szoboszlai – 8.9/10
Szoboszlai was everywhere – covering ground, testing Spurs’ defense, and getting into good positions. He scored a crucial goal after a brilliant assist from Bradley.

LM: Cody Gakpo – 8.5/10
Took his goal exceptionally well, creating chances for teammates, and was one of the standout performers of the match. His work ethic and finishing were key in the win.

ST: Darwin Nunez – 8.0/10
Lively and full of running, Nunez’s hard work paid off as he was involved in both goals, creating space for his teammates and winning the penalty that Salah converted.

SUB: Alexis Mac Allister (72′ for Jones) – 7.2/10
Mac Allister was calm in the final stages, keeping possession well and providing a crucial assist for Van Dijk’s header.

SUB: Diogo Jota (72′ for Nunez) – 6.1/10
Jota had a decent cameo on his return from injury but didn’t have much impact on the game compared to others.

February 7, 2025
Liverpool 4-0 Tottenham: Reds Cruise to Wembley in Style

Liverpool made light work of Tottenham, securing a 4-0 victory at Anfield to reach the Carabao Cup final with a 4-1 aggregate win. The atmosphere at Anfield was electric as the Reds dominated from the start, sending the fans into a frenzy.

Liverpool’s first goal came when Mohamed Salah’s cross found Cody Gakpo, who finished calmly to give Liverpool the lead. This goal leveled the aggregate score at 1-1, and the momentum quickly shifted in Liverpool’s favour. Tottenham were struggling, and Richarlison was forced to leave the pitch with an injury, leaving Spurs without one of their key players.

Salah, who was in the middle of everything, soon earned a penalty for the Reds. Tottenham’s goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky brought down Darwin Nunez in the box, and Salah stepped up to score the penalty, making it 2-0 and putting Liverpool ahead on aggregate.

Liverpool were now in full control, pressing high and not giving Tottenham any time on the ball. Their pressing game forced Tottenham to defend for most of the match, with the Reds looking dangerous every time they went forward.

The third goal came when Alexis Mac Allister found Conor Bradley with a perfect pass. Bradley quickly crossed the ball to Dominik Szoboszlai, who finished it off with ease, making it 3-0. The game was nearly over, but Liverpool added a fourth when Virgil van Dijk scored from a corner delivered by Mac Allister, sealing the victory at 4-0.

Tottenham had no answer to Liverpool’s strong performance. The Reds will now face Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley on March 16.

This was a dominant performance from Liverpool, showing their strength and desire to win silverware, and the result puts them in a strong position for the rest of the season.

February 6, 2025
Kostas Tsimikas Lauds Cody Gakpo’s ‘Special’ Impact Ahead of Tottenham Clash

Liverpool are heading into their Carabao Cup semi-final clash with Tottenham with one goal in mind: reaching yet another final. But even as they trail by 1-0, they remain confident, thanks in no small part to the stellar performances of key players like Cody Gakpo. The Dutchman’s role in Liverpool’s cup run has been undeniable.

Kostas Tsimikas, who has partnered with Gakpo in several Carabao Cup fixtures, is full of praise for his teammate. The Greek left-back has highlighted Gakpo’s qualities, which have been key to Liverpool’s success in the competition.

Gakpo has been one of Liverpool’s standout players in the Carabao Cup. Last season, he was the joint top-scorer in the competition, with four goals in six appearances. This season, he’s continued his impressive form, netting four goals in four games. His contribution has been pivotal for Liverpool, and Tsimikas is one of his biggest admirers.

“He’s a great, great player,” Tsimikas told liverpoolfc.com. “He’s shown from the time he came in how special he is. His strength, his speed, and now with the goals he’s scoring, he’s a top player for the team.”

Tsimikas also praised Gakpo’s work ethic. “He’s always a hard worker, whether in attack or defense. He’s always there to help the team achieve our goals,” he added. “I’m really happy for him, and I hope he scores even more goals because he absolutely deserves it.”

While Gakpo’s performances have been crucial, Tsimikas has also been a key player in Liverpool’s cup runs. The pair has developed a solid understanding on the field, especially in the Carabao Cup, where Gakpo has started all four of Liverpool’s matches, with Tsimikas often providing support down the left wing.

Despite this growing partnership, there’s still competition in Liverpool’s lineup. Tsimikas has been rotated with Andy Robertson throughout the season, particularly in the Carabao Cup and other cup competitions. However, with Liverpool’s upcoming FA Cup match against Plymouth, it’s likely that Robertson will return to the starting XI for the Tottenham clash, leaving Tsimikas to support the team from the bench.

Liverpool will be looking to overturn their 1-0 deficit against Tottenham on Thursday, and with players like Gakpo in fine form, they’ll be hopeful of making it to the final. Tsimikas’ praise of Gakpo highlights the unity and spirit within the squad, which will be crucial as the Reds look to secure their place in the final.

February 5, 2025
Bournemouth 0-2 Liverpool: Salah brace gives Reds win

In what could be described as another tough test on the road, Liverpool triumphed 2-0 over Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium. Despite facing a resilient opponent, the Reds walked away with all three points, continuing their impressive march at the top of the Premier League.

Mohamed Salah’s clinical brace was enough to ensure victory, but it wasn’t all plain sailing. Liverpool’s dominance over the course of the 90 minutes was coupled with a few moments of fortune, some of which helped secure the win.

From the outset, Liverpool were presented with a series of challenges. The first significant moment arrived in the 30th minute when a seemingly innocuous challenge between Lewis Cook and Cody Gakpo led to a penalty for the visitors.

Replays suggested minimal contact between the two, making the decision look somewhat harsh. Nevertheless, the referee pointed to the spot, and Mohamed Salah—ever the composed figure in front of goal—converted confidently for his 20th league goal of the season. The penalty sparked debate, but the controversial call stood, as VAR chose not to intervene, adhering to the Premier League’s current push to avoid excessive re-refereeing.

Salah’s goal gave Liverpool an early advantage, and it was a lead they would hold throughout the match. However, the Reds were not without their challenges. Bournemouth started the second half with renewed vigor, determined to fight their way back into the game.

The home side found themselves with a golden opportunity just minutes after the restart. Justin Kluivert, unmarked and with a clear shot on goal, somehow missed his target by a considerable margin, slicing the ball wide. It was a huge let-off for Liverpool, one that would prove pivotal as the match unfolded.

That miss by Kluivert seemed to shift the momentum in Liverpool’s favor. Shortly after, Salah found himself in a dangerous position once again, and when the opportunity presented itself, he doubled Liverpool’s lead. A well-orchestrated move saw the Egyptian international break free and slot home with precision, effectively sealing the three points for his side. His second goal left little room for doubt, and it was clear that Bournemouth’s hopes of leveling the score had all but evaporated.

Yet, while the game seemed to be slipping away from the home side, there was still time for a final twist. Bournemouth pushed forward in the dying stages of the match, hoping to make one last attempt to breach Liverpool’s defense. Alisson Becker, who had been relatively untroubled up until that point, was called into action.

In stoppage time, the Brazilian goalkeeper produced a magnificent save to deny a late Bournemouth header. His intervention ensured Liverpool’s clean sheet, preserving their 2-0 lead and helping them see out the victory in what was a nervy final few minutes.

This victory further solidifies Liverpool’s position as the team to beat in the Premier League. With their remarkable consistency, they are now nine points clear at the top of the table, a margin that will surely put pressure on their closest competitors. Arsenal, who sit in second place, will face Manchester City at home in a crucial clash, and the outcome of that match could have significant implications for the title race.

February 1, 2025
Cody Gakpo Nominated for Premier League Player of the Month

Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo has been shortlisted for the Premier League Player of the Month award for January, following a series of impressive performances.

Gakpo played a key role in Liverpool’s strong start to 2025, scoring three goals and providing an assist during the month. He found the net against Manchester United before delivering a brilliant brace in the Reds’ 4-1 win over Ipswich Town. His assist in the same game further highlighted his attacking influence.

The Dutchman also made history in January by scoring in his sixth consecutive Premier League home game, surpassing the previous record held by Robin van Persie and Ruud van Nistelrooy. His consistency at Anfield has been crucial in helping Liverpool maintain their position at the top of the league table.

Gakpo is among seven nominees for the award, competing against Phil Foden (Manchester City), Dean Huijsen (Crystal Palace), Alexander Isak (Newcastle United), Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth), Jean-Philippe Mateta (Crystal Palace), and Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford).

Fans can support Gakpo by casting their vote for him to win the award.

January 30, 2025
PSV Eindhoven 3-2 Liverpool: Reds Defeated but Top Group in Thrilling Finale

In a high-octane conclusion to the Champions League group stage, Liverpool were beaten 3-2 by PSV Eindhoven at the Philips Stadion, but still finished top of the group. With the outcome having no impact on their progression to the knockout rounds, manager Arne Slot made a host of changes, giving fringe players valuable experience ahead of the next phase of the competition.

Despite the result, Slot’s rotated side showed plenty of character in a wild first half, where the lead changed hands three times, and PSV capitalized on a series of defensive lapses to snatch the win.

The opening 30 minutes passed without much incident, with both teams testing the waters before the match suddenly sprang into life. In the 28th minute, Liverpool took the lead after Federico Chiesa was fouled in the box, earning a penalty. Cody Gakpo, back at his former club, made no mistake, sending the ball confidently into the bottom corner.

However, PSV responded quickly. Just seven minutes later, Johan Bakayoko equalized, cleverly bypassing the Liverpool defense before coolly finishing past goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher.

The Reds bounced back almost immediately. In the 40th minute, a deflected shot from Chiesa found its way to Harvey Elliott, who made no mistake in restoring Liverpool’s lead.

But PSV were relentless. Just five minutes later, Ismael Saibari rifled home a shot from close range, taking advantage of a turnover in midfield by Wataru Endo. The game was level once again.

And then, in the dying seconds of stoppage time, the home side took the lead for the first time. A cross into the box flicked off Conor Bradley and into the net, giving PSV a 3-2 advantage heading into halftime.

Slot made his first change early in the second half, with Tyler Morton replacing Gakpo, who received a warm ovation from the Eindhoven crowd. As the game settled into a more cagey rhythm, Trey Nyoni replaced Andy Robertson, with Endo dropping into defense to allow Robertson to rest ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League clash with Bournemouth.

Despite the changes, Liverpool lacked the same intensity in the second period, with much of the focus now shifting to the ongoing Champions League table. Barcelona’s 1-1 draw with Atalanta ensured that Liverpool would finish top of Group D, regardless of the result in Eindhoven.

The game saw one final moment of drama, with 18-year-old debutant Amara Nallo being sent off for a last-man challenge in the final minutes, leaving Liverpool to play out the remaining moments with 10 men.

While the defeat in Eindhoven was not ideal, the result mattered little for Liverpool, who had already secured their place at the top of the group. Slot’s rotated lineup provided valuable minutes to players on the fringes of the squad, with several individuals showing promise, particularly in attack.

Liverpool will now look ahead to the knockout rounds, where they could face one of PSG, Benfica, Brest, or Monaco. Slot will no doubt be pleased to have secured the top spot in the group, and will now shift focus to preparations for the next stage of Europe’s premier competition.

January 29, 2025
Liverpool names 21-man squad for PSV; Salah and Van Dijk left out

Liverpool has announced the squad for tomorrow’s Champions League match against PSV Eindhoven, with some notable absences. Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk are both missing from the 21-man list, as manager Arne Slot has chosen to give them rest ahead of the busy schedule that lies ahead.

With Liverpool already through to the last 16 of the competition and just one point away from finishing top of their group, Slot has decided to rotate his team, ensuring key players get a much-needed break before the Premier League clash with Bournemouth this weekend.

Although Salah and Van Dijk are left behind, there is good news for Liverpool fans. Joe Gomez, who has been recovering from a hamstring injury, makes a surprise return to the squad and will travel with the team. This comes as a boost for Liverpool’s defense.

On the other hand, Curtis Jones will not make the trip due to injury, missing his second consecutive match after also sitting out Saturday’s win over Ipswich. Diogo Jota continues his recovery and was also absent from training, leaving the attack a bit short-handed.

Despite these absences, Liverpool’s squad still includes several important players. Forwards Cody Gakpo, Darwin Nunez, and Federico Chiesa are all traveling, alongside defenders Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas, as well as midfielders Wataru Endo and Harvey Elliott.

Some youth players have also been given a chance to travel, including Rio Ngumoha, Trey Nyoni, James McConnell, Tommy Pilling, James Norris, Amara Nallo, and Trent Kone-Doherty. However, Ngumoha is not eligible for selection as he hasn’t been with the club long enough, according to UEFA regulations.

January 28, 2025
Injury Boost: Joe Gomez Returns to Training Ahead of UCL Clash with PSV

Joe Gomez has made a long-awaited return to Liverpool’s training, bringing relief to fans after spending a month on the sidelines. The defender has been out since December 29, when he suffered a hamstring injury during the Reds’ emphatic 5-0 victory over West Ham. His absence was a blow to Liverpool, who had to navigate seven key matches without one of their most dependable players.

His return comes at an opportune moment. Liverpool is gearing up for a hectic schedule, including a Champions League clash against PSV and an FA Cup tie with Plymouth on February 9. While Gomez might not be ready for the intense demands of Wednesday’s European showdown, his availability could be vital in the FA Cup, allowing Virgil van Dijk to rest. With games coming thick and fast, rotation will be essential as the Reds balance form and fitness during this crucial period.

At the AXA Training Centre, Liverpool’s session was buzzing with activity as players prepared for the challenges ahead. Key names like Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, and Dominik Szoboszlai were present, underscoring the squad’s strength. However, Curtis Jones and Diogo Jota were absent as they continue their recovery. Manager Arne Slot shared updates, hinting that both players are nearing full fitness and could return within weeks.

Jota’s absence has been particularly felt in the attack, where his adaptability and goal-scoring prowess are hard to replace. Jones, a key figure in midfield, has also been missed for his energy and composure. Both players are expected to make a big impact when they return.

With Gomez back, their depth and resilience will be tested as they continue to chase trophies.

January 28, 2025