Ruud Gullit believes Cody Gakpo needs greater consistency at Liverpool while Virgil van Dijk must return to his best.
Gullit discussed the Liverpool pair during an exclusive interview with NY Sports Day, assessing Gakpo’s future amid transfer speculation and Van Dijk’s importance to the Reds’ defence.
Tottenham remain interested in Gakpo, although Liverpool would not be expected to sanction his departure without securing a replacement.
Gakpo needs greater consistency
Gakpo has continued to be linked with an Anfield exit despite remaining an important member of Liverpool’s attacking options.
The Netherlands international scored in Sunday’s 2-0 pre-season victory over Como, opening the scoring before Jeremy Jacquet added a second on his debut.
However, Gullit believes Gakpo’s biggest problem has been the lack of a consistent run in the team rather than his ability.
“His main issue has been consistency of minutes – in one week, out the next,” Gullit said.
“I still rate him highly; during their title-winning campaign, he was superb.
“Several attackers struggled for rhythm following recruitment shifts, including Mohamed Salah at times.
“Gakpo needs a manager who shows complete faith in him and grants him the freedom to make mistakes without an immediate benching.
“When he plays with confidence, he has proven how impactful he is for Liverpool,” Gullit added.
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Van Dijk must return to his peak
Gullit also offered a critical assessment of Liverpool captain Van Dijk, arguing that the defender’s physical condition will be central to his performances this season.
“It comes down to physical condition,” Gullit said of Van Dijk.
“Liverpool have already started bringing in younger central defenders for the future transition.
“If Virgil is in peak condition, his experience makes him an incredible asset.
“But for the national team recently, errors slipped in – getting caught under headers or allowing sharp goalscorers space inside the box.
“I’ve been more critical of Virgil than most analysts, not out of malice, but precisely because he is the standard-bearer.
“You don’t waste critical energy on fringe players; you hold elite players accountable to maintain their level.
The highest level brings the most scrutiny
“Modern players can be overly sensitive to criticism, but top-level football brings intense scrutiny,” Gullit continued.
“When you are the biggest tree, you catch the most wind.
“I want to see him back at his absolute peak for Liverpool, because a fully fit Van Dijk transforms that entire defence.”
Liverpool will need their captain at his best as they continue their new era under Andoni Iraola, particularly following a difficult previous campaign and significant changes to the squad.
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