Cody Gakpo has had a tough few months at Liverpool as he attempts to get used to a change in left-back.
The Dutchman is currently nursing an injury which is set to see him miss a number of weeks, losing his spot in Arne Slot’s team in the process.
Part of Gakpo‘s problem has seemingly been a lack of understanding with Milos Kerkez, who has regularly been ignored by his left winger while attempting to provide an option.
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Having played in front of Andy Robertson since his arrival in 2023, it has been a change which Gakpo has not appeared to get his head around.
As he prepares to watch his teammates from the sidelines, the 26-year-old has now explained what he sees as being the biggest difference between Kerkez and Robertson.
Only experience separates Andy Robertson and Milos Kerkez
Throughout his two years with Bournemouth, Kerkez had looked like the ideal successor to Robertson.
And according to Gakpo, that is what he has seen up close as well. In terms of playing style, the Netherlands international says the two left-backs are very similar.
Andrew Robertson of Liverpool comes on for Milos Kerkez of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Burnley and Liverpool at Turf Moor
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“I think both have a very good cross. Both have a lot of energy. They want to come all the time. Like you said, attacking wise, very good,” Gakpo told Stadium Astro before detailing that Robertson’s experience is what sets him apart slightly.
“The difference, age is a difference. I think experience. Robbo has obviously a lot of experience, he’s been at the club for a long time as well. Milos is younger but eager to learn new things.
“Obviously, he’s come to a new team, maybe new tactical things which he’s trying to adapt to which is going well and he’s doing his best.
“I think Robbo is more like the leader on that position for him as well to teach him things and I see them two also, Milos learning from Robbo, you know and speaking together and that makes it all more easy.”
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Big decision for Arne Slot
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Who should be Liverpool’s starting left-back?
Just as the right-back position has become a thorn in Slot’s side, the opposite side of the pitch is also far from decided.
The Liverpool head coach had clearly decided that Kerkez should be his regular starter heading into the season, but it quickly became apparent that the Hungarian has a lot to learn.
Over the past month or so, Robertson has slowly started to gain more ground, and at present both are now playing far better.
In the long-term, Kerkez is obviously the answer. Robertson’s contract expires at the end of the season and there is currently little sign of him penning an extension.
However, Gakpo knows better than most that the Scot’s experience and quality cannot be taken for granted. For as long as Liverpool have him on the books, Robertson should be their left-back.
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