Liverpool fans will be keeping a very close eye on Cody Gakpo after the Reds forward appeared to be struggling during international duty.
Footage and reports circulating have sparked concern among supporters, with claims that Gakpo was keen to be taken off after picking up what looked like a worrying problem.
Naturally, the immediate reaction from Liverpool supporters is going to be one of concern.
The last thing Andoni Iraola needs is another attacking player picking up an injury with a huge part of the season still ahead.
Gakpo Injury Concern
Gakpo has become an important part of Liverpool’s attacking options and has made an excellent start to the campaign.
That makes any injury concern involving the Dutchman particularly worrying.
There has been plenty of discussion online suggesting that the problem could be serious, with some reports even claiming that the Liverpool forward wanted to come off.
However, at this stage, there has been no official confirmation from Liverpool that Gakpo has suffered a serious injury.
That is an important distinction.
Liverpool previously provided a fitness update on Gakpo earlier this month after he missed the Champions League meeting with Atletico Madrid.
Iraola explained at the time that Gakpo had experienced some adductor issues during the win over Ipswich Town but stressed that it was not considered a proper injury.
So while today’s reports are certainly enough to make Liverpool fans nervous, we should wait for a proper medical assessment before assuming the worst.
Liverpool Cannot Afford Another Attacking Injury
This is where the concern comes from.
Liverpool already have Hugo Ekitike working his way back from a long-term injury, while the club have invested heavily in strengthening their attacking options.
Gakpo has also shown just how valuable he can be.
His ability to play from the left, operate centrally and contribute goals and assists gives Iraola another important option when selecting his front line.
Losing him for a significant period would therefore be a major blow.
And Liverpool’s schedule is only going to become more demanding as the season progresses.
We Need To Wait For More Information
It is very easy for social media to turn an injury scare into something much bigger before the medical staff have even had the opportunity to properly assess the player.
We’ve seen it many times in football.
A player goes down.
He asks to come off.
A clip appears online.
Suddenly supporters are being told that the player is facing months on the sidelines.
That doesn’t necessarily mean it is true.
Liverpool fans have every right to be concerned about Gakpo, particularly if he was visibly struggling, but the sensible thing is to wait for confirmation from the Netherlands or Liverpool.
Hopefully, this turns out to be nothing more than another precaution and Gakpo is back available for the Reds soon.
Liverpool Fans Will Be Watching Closely
There is no question that an injury to Gakpo would be frustrating for Iraola and Liverpool.
The Dutchman has become an important part of the squad and his versatility gives the manager valuable options in attack.
For now, though, this remains an injury scare rather than a confirmed serious injury.
Liverpool supporters will be hoping that the next update brings some much-needed good news.
Because after seeing Gakpo appear to struggle and reportedly ask to come off, nobody associated with the Reds will want to hear that their in-form forward is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Let’s hope the initial fears prove to be much worse than the actual problem.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
### _Related_