Ex-Liverpool star spots noticeable Cody Gakpo change after starring at World Cup
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Cody Gakpo looks to be rediscovering his form after a difficult season at Liverpool, with one former Red seeing a big difference now the forward is with the Netherlands at the World CupCody Gakpo starred in the Netherlands' win over Sweden at the World Cup(Image: Getty Images)Daniel Sturridge has hailed Cody Gakpo after his latest performance at the World Cup, with the former Liverpool striker noticing a marked difference between his displays for club and country.Gakpo was in superb form as he fired the Netherlands to a 5-1 thrashing of Sweden, claiming bragging rights over Reds teammate Alexander Isak in the process.The 27-year-old scored twice and bagged an assist for Brian Brobbey’s opener to leave his nation on the verge of qualifying for the knockout stages of the tournament, while also answering some of his critics after what was a difficult year at Liverpool.Gakpo came under a lot of criticism as the Reds failed to live under expectations, with head coach Arne Slot paying the price as he was fired and replaced by Andoni Iraola shortly after the campaign ended.Having linked back up with his international teammates though, Gakpo looks to be rediscovering some of his form, with Sturridge seeing a big difference.“Gakpo is different for Netherlands man!” Sturridge posted on X. Love to see it.”Cody Gakpo celebrates with Liverpool teammate Ryan Gravenberch after scoring for the Netherlands at the World Cup.(Image: Rico Brouwer/Soccrates/Getty Images)Gakpo himself appeared to back up Sturridge’s analysis, having commented on the “freedom” he feels while playing for his national side.The forward now has eight goals from 14 appearances at major international tournaments, having burst onto the scene four years ago in Qatar with performances that earned him his move to Liverpool."It’s a little bit different," Gakpo said when he was asked post-match to explain how he is able to perform to such a high level in a Dutch jersey."How I play here, where the coach wants me to be, the freedom that I have at the club," he added.
"That’s it basically."Get Liverpool's new 2026/27 home kitThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn moreLiverpool FC have launched their new home kit for the 2026/27, inspired by iconic adidas strip worn during the club's 1989/90 title-winning campaign.There has been speculation over Gakpo’s future at Anfield, with Liverpool having completed the signing of fellow left-winger Victor Munoz and eyeing up more options in attack as it pursues Yan Diomande.For now, Gakpo’s focus is on the World Cup, with the Netherlands having proved a point after throwing away two points in their opening game against Japan.“We have a lot of different qualities,” said Gakpo.
“Speed, strong hold-up play, we’re good in the box. Even on the bench we still have Justin Kluivert and [Wout] Weghorst [both yet to play], so it’s good to have diversity and qualities to help the team in any moment.“Japan were very disciplined, not big chances like today.