Liverpool’s new manager Andoni Iraola has been discussing his plans ahead of his inaugural competitive match in charge, which sees the Reds travel to St James’ Park to face Newcastle United in the Premier League this weekend.
Iraola is confident that Cody Gakpo can provide support for Alexander Isak in the centre-forward role this term, amid ongoing suggestions the Dutch international could leave Anfield.
Spurs are understood to have long been monitoring Gakpo, who was among the players subjected to criticism from Liverpool supporters during a difficult previous season that ultimately led to Arne Slot’s dismissal.
Following his standout displays for the Netherlands at the World Cup, Gakpo reported back to pre-season in excellent condition and netted the first goal in last weekend’s 2-0 friendly victory over Como at Anfield.
The forward is set to continue on the left side of attack for Sunday’s league opener at Newcastle, though Liverpool are still pursuing a move for Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola.
Iraola disclosed he has held discussions with the Netherlands international, viewing him as an option to lead the line in place of Isak, with Hugo Ekitike sidelined for an extended period after suffering a severe Achilles problem in April.
Gakpo possesses the capability to operate as the main striker this campaign, Iraola explained. During pre-season preparations the focus remained on his preferred left-wing position due to limited winger options, though the forward has previously demonstrated he can fulfil the number nine role and may be deployed there in specific circumstances.
The 25-year-old has been delivering strong performances since the first training session, quickly grasping the tactical requirements of his position. His football intelligence is evident in conversations and he has featured among the squad’s most impressive performers in the warm-up matches. While the starting lineup for the Newcastle fixture remains undetermined, Gakpo finds himself in an excellent position.
Liverpool have lacked a vice-captain since skipper Andy Robertson secured a free transfer to Tottenham earlier in the summer.
The Spanish coach also outlined why Alisson Becker will not serve as captain this season, despite being appointed alongside Joe Gomez and Dominik Szoboszlai as deputies to Virgil van Dijk.
The goalkeeper will not be able to wear the armband under new regulations, Iraola noted, explaining that having a custodian in the role creates significant complications. When incidents occur in the opposition penalty area, referees must communicate with captains regarding decisions, which becomes impractical with a keeper in that position. During his time at Bournemouth with another goalkeeper, a different player had to be designated as captain at the start of each match, which proved unworkable.
Nevertheless, the club wanted Alisson to feel valued, and while further time together will deepen their relationship, the reasoning behind the captaincy ruling had to be clearly communicated to him given the current regulatory framework places considerable restrictions on goalkeeper captains.