Gakpo's apology shows what Slot must avoid at Liverpool. #anfield #liverpooltv #footballcoach

Versatility can sometimes be both a blessing and a curse. Cody Gakpo experienced a season at Liverpool where his efforts to assist the team occasionally hindered his personal development.
Despite a promising warm-up period, Liverpool's selection issues forced Gakpo to start the campaign in central midfield, leading to an inconsistent run of form where he only scored twice in the Premier League before the New Year.
Limited opportunities as the central striker, particularly in top-flight games, contributed to this. However, Gakpo found solace in other competitions, notably the League Cup, where he scored in multiple matches and played a key role in the final win over Chelsea.
Nevertheless, the increased workload and various positions he played - including centre forward, midfield, left wing, and occasionally right wing - began to affect Gakpo's physical and mental sharpness, making consistency difficult to maintain.
In February, then Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp admitted, 'Cody had a bit of a struggle, it was more my fault. We discussed whether Cody could play a midfield position for us, and yes, he can in different moments. Is it his natural position? I would say no. He can definitely handle the offensive part of the role, but he lacked confidence in defensive aspects he wasn't accustomed to.'
Gakpo's situation worsened, notably with a poor cameo appearance in the FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester United. This prompted discussions with Klopp, resulting in a stronger end to the season. Gakpo seized the first-choice number nine role from Darwin Nunez and contributed three goals and two assists in his final eight league outings.
Despite the challenges, Gakpo finished the season strongly, aiming to carry that momentum into the European Championships with Holland. With compatriot Arne Slot taking over as head coach, Gakpo's return to form is well-timed, whether playing on the left or in the center - his preferred positions.
While doubts have emerged regarding the long-term futures of fellow forwards Mohamed Salah, Luis Diaz, and Nunez, Gakpo is once again viewed as a potential key player for Liverpool. At just 25 years old, the upcoming season holds promise for him, provided he operates in his best positions.