Virgil van Dijk has praised Cody Gakpo's importance to Liverpool after the winger stayed at Anfield, with the Dutchman providing two assists in Liverpool's 2-0 win over Ipswich
Virgil van Dijk
Virgil van Dijk
Virgil van Dijk has underlined Cody Gakpo's significance to Liverpool, just days after the forward was strongly linked with a move to Manchester City.
Gakpo's future became the focus of widespread speculation during the summer transfer window, with Tottenham Hotspur also touted as a possible suitor, but set up both of Alexander Isak's goals against Ipswich.
City were reportedly prepared to offer approximately $115 million for Gakpo's signature, though this was contingent upon Liverpool securing a suitable replacement. Ultimately, Gakpo stayed at Liverpool beyond the summer transfer window's conclusion and has subsequently played a crucial part in helping the Reds secure their opening victory of the campaign.
Gakpo contributed to Liverpool's 2-0 triumph over Ipswich Town on Friday evening in the Premier League, with Van Dijk subsequently revealing his delight at retaining his Netherlands colleague at Anfield.
"Massive, I said it before the transfer window was closed, he is important for us," Van Dijk told Sky Sports when asked about Gakpo, reports the Liverpool Echo.
"He will be important this season as well and he showed it again, last week as well and over the last couple of years."
Gakpo set up both of Alexander Isak's goals, which were netted at Portman Road on Friday night, with the strikes arriving within the opening 10 minutes in East Anglia.
Isak now has three Premier League goals this season, matching the tally he achieved throughout the whole of the previous campaign.
Gakpo, who has now registered three assists across his previous two appearances for Liverpool, reflected post-match on the significance of securing all three points.
"It was a great game for us, some things we have to improve," Gakpo said. "A much-needed win, happy we got the three points and the performance."
Liverpool have now accumulated five points from their opening three Premier League fixtures and will turn their attention to their first Champions League encounter of the campaign next week.
The Reds welcome Atletico Madrid to Anfield on Wednesday evening, before hosting Fulham in the Premier League three days later.