Liverpool star explains how Klopp comparison with legend helped Anfield start
Cody Gakpo has revealed how Jurgen Klopp kicked off his Liverpool career by comparing him to Reds icon Roberto Firmino.
The Dutch forward arrived at Anfield last January in a £ 45m move from Eredivisie giants PSV Eindhoven. The Reds managed to beat Premier League rivals Manchester United to his services - Erik ten Hag also keen to move for his countryman.
Liverpool managed to fight off competition for Gakpo from Old Trafford. Since then, the 24-year-old has made 40 appearances in all competitions and scored 11 goals.
He has since revealed that his career at Anfield was kicked off in the best possible way after new manager Klopp had compared him to former Reds’ forward Firmino. Speaking on international duty, Gakpo said: “It was an exciting year in which I made a beautiful journey.
“And still. I feel very much at home in Liverpool. Football is going well, we live nicely. My girlfriend is happy, and my family and friends are also experiencing everything. Then you are blessed.
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“He [Klopp] immediately said in January: ‘Cody can play good pressing, he can do as a striker what Roberto Firmino did for us for years.’ I am challenged to get out of my comfort zone. I like that.”
Klopp has remained complimentary of Gakpo and his displays since he became a Liverpool player. He recently praised the Dutchman for his maturity.
Jurgen Klopp confirmed Cody Gakpo to Roberto Firmino after he arrived at Liverpool (Getty Images)Will Liverpool beat Man City? Share your predictions in the comments below
"He is incredibly nice, incredibly smart," Klopp said. "I think Cody is the oldest 24-year-old boy I have ever met. When I met Cody, he was already the captain of his previous club in Eindhoven — wow! And then you realize after 10 minutes [how young he is]."
Gakpo has been in action over the international break for the Netherlands. He started on Saturday evening during a slender 1-0 win over the Republic of Ireland in a qualifying clash for next summer’s Euros.
Former Manchester United striker Wout Weghorst scored the winning goal for Ronald Koeman’s side. Gakpo will hope to earn more minutes on Tuesday evening as his nation take on Gibraltar - who lost 14-0 to France on Saturday - in Portugal.
Gakpo will be aiming to return to Liverpool in top form ahead of the Reds’ top-of-the-table clash with Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium next weekend. Klopp’s side would claim top spot with victory against the reigning champions.
Klopp will certainly hope he can emulate Firmino once again against Pep Guardiola ’s side. The Brazilian scored five goals and notched as many assists against Man City during his stint in the Premier League.
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