Liverpool clinched another away victory with a 3-2 win over Brighton & Hove Albion in the League Cup, highlighted by Cody Gakpo’s standout performance.
The Dutch international scored two impressive second-half goals for Arne Slot’s squad, making a strong case for more playing time in Liverpool’s attack. Third-choice goalkeeper Vitezslav Jaros also earned praise from Slot for his efforts.
While Luis Diaz has largely claimed the left-wing spot this season, Gakpo has had to contend for each opportunity on the pitch. Both players are now beginning to show the form that led Liverpool to sign them.
Slot has now clarified Gakpo’s role, labeling him as a ‘regular starter’ following the Brighton match.
**Slot Confirms Gakpo as Liverpool’s ‘Regular Starter’
After the League Cup victory, Slot told reporters that he views Gakpo as a regular starter, impressed by the winger’s influence at the Amex Stadium.
“For me, he is a regular starter,” Slot stated. “He’s not in every lineup but starts frequently and competes closely with Luis Diaz, who scored as well when he took the left-wing spot. At Liverpool, you have quality depth in each position; Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah, for instance, played well despite the unlucky goal we conceded. It’s what you expect from a squad like Liverpool’s.”
**Can Gakpo Overtake Diaz as Liverpool’s Left-Winger
Diaz has had a dynamic start under Slot, establishing himself on the left wing and challenging Gakpo to keep pace in goal contributions.
| Luis Diaz 2024/25 Liverpool stats | Cody Gakpo 2024/25 Liverpool stats | |
| Games played | 13 | 14 |
| Minutes played | 749 | 637 |
| Goals | 6 | 4 |
| Assists | 2 | 2 |
As November approaches, the gap between Gakpo and Diaz in goal output is narrowing, with just two goals separating the two wingers. Notably, Gakpo has achieved this while playing over 100 fewer minutes than Diaz across all competitions.
Gakpo may need another standout performance or two to fully demonstrate his potential within Liverpool’s system. However, as the season progresses, the competition for the left-wing position is likely to intensify, keeping both players striving for the edge.
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