Last Thursday, he scored the second goal in a 3-0 victory over Kostas Tsimikas’ Greece. The following day, in Dublin, against Caoimhin Kelleher’s Republic of Ireland (although the Cork native was not used as a substitute), he scored the equalizer via the penalty spot as they came from behind to win 2-1 in a crucial match for Euro 2024 qualification.
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 When Cody Gakpo lines up for his nation’s Oranje, he plays as a left winger, which is not his ‘natural’ position. In January 2023, Eindhoven-born Gakpo’s services were abruptly acquired by Liverpool, which most people found to be a little strange. After all, Jürgen Klopp’s team appeared to be rather deep in that position over the long run, despite injuries to both Luis Dáz and Diogo Jota. When it came to the attack, the majority would have prioritized covering for the extremely reliant Mohamed Salah on the other side if any section of the midfield had needed reinforcements.
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The biggest question with Gakpo is whether or not he can play this position consistently over the long haul, as well as how much playing time he will get there and on the left wing going forward. Due to his superior pressing and defending skills, he initially appeared to be preferred over Nez in central areas last season. However, the Uruguayan has made huge strides in this area and has greater offensive potential than Gakpo.
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Daz has had the best start to the season of any club player on the left flank, scoring goals and adding flare. He appears to have his spot locked down for the near future, barring injuries (touch wood).
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Gakpo is too gifted to serve as the club’s equivalent of a Swiss Army Knife, stepping in when necessary but failing to establish his own position within the group.
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Maybe I’m mistaken, and having a player as talented as Gakpo on hand is great for the team, but it might be problematic for his professional future.
