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After Liverpool's disappointing 4-3 loss to Manchester United in the FA Cup on Sunday, Cody Gakpo has found himself perhaps unfairly scapegoated by a section of supporters on social media.

Reds legend Jamie Carragher would take issue with his performance against the Red Devils following his introduction as substitute, declaring he 'plays like the game is in slow motion.'

The forward has scored 13 goals for Liverpool so far this season despite finding himself in and out of Jurgen Klopp's starting XI.



The pair scored a combined 16 goals, and were crucial to the Reds' success in the League Cup and FA Cup, but netted just six times in the Premier League.

Even if fully fit and on form, there was never any chance of them starting when the stakes were highest when everyone else in Jurgen Klopp's attacking ranks was available.

Two years on, that is no longer something you are able to claim.

Having started the season as first-choice, form and injuries has ultimately seen Cody Gakpo drop down the pecking order this year.

Yet he still has 13 goals to date during the campaign, and has been vital to League Cup glory and Europa League progression, while also returning five Premier League goals.

With Klopp continuing to rotate his options alongside Mohamed Salah, the Dutchman could start any game and is far more than just a fringe, back-up option.

Admittedly, he has struggled at times this year.

And while he adapted superbly as a false nine during the second half of last season, the form of Nunez has nailed down the central berth in Liverpool's side.

Arguably lacking form and low on confidence as a result, things aren't quite clicking for Gakpo on the pitch at the moment.

He's already played his part and squad players are vital in allowing Liverpool to win the Carabao Cup, compete in the Europa League and maintain their Premier League challenge.

There had been hopes Gakpo would be the Roberto Firmino successor but with Darwin Nunez stepping up a level this season, Luis Diaz's consistency and Diogo Jota's fine form have pushed him down the pecking order - so it's no surprise his confidence levels have dipped.

Even so, 13 goals already this season is a respectable return and as we've learned with Takumi Minamino and Divock Origi, quite often the fringe players emerge as heroes when we approach the business end of the campaign.
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