Former Everton player tries to pull strings at Liverpool with message to Arne Slot | Football | Sports

Former Everton boss Ronald Koeman has told Liverpool that Cody Gakpo’s best position is on the left wing. The Dutch forward has not had a stable foothold at Anfield, contributing to inconsistent form since his 2022 move from PSV.

Gakpo was one of the Euro 2024 stars for Koeman’s Netherlands side. The Liverpool man has scored three goals in four appearances at the tournament.

His excellent performances came on the left of a three-man attack. Of his 53 appearances for Liverpool last season, 27 of them came as a centre-forward. Gakpo started just 12 of them at left back.

But Koeman is sure to play Gakpo in his preferred position. “First of all, his position is on the left side,” said the experienced Dutch coach.

“Because it’s very dangerous if he comes one-on-one with the right-back. Inside, outside, he has his qualities, he is strong.

“He is playing at a great level in this tournament. He is perhaps the most important player so far and I hope the rest will reach that level.”

Koeman added: “Yes, he can play as a striker, but today he showed that he is the most dangerous on the left.”

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp tended to favor Gakpo through the middle of his attack. It is unclear where the 25-year-old will be used by head coach Arne Slot.

Gakpo scored 16 goals in all competitions last season and his improved form in the final third of the campaign secured his place in Koeman’s preferred XI. The former PSV star has thanked the people at Liverpool for helping him through tough times.