It was a goal that might, in time, become known as a trademark Cody Gakpo strike.
The Liverpool forward's sharp turn and 20-yard effort, that fizzed in via the post
Ask Jurgen Klopp about the Dutchman's qualities and he will wax lyrical, enthused by the skillset of his £37m January signing. Shooting from distance, the manager has always professed, is one of Gakpo's strengths, as is his close control and ability to take possession in tight areas.
Jürgen Klopp:
"His shooting from distance [is] outstanding," Klopp gushed in January, adding: "It is an extreme strength of his and he has a long-term contract here and everybody will see that.
It was the Netherlands international's sixth since joining from PSV at the start of the year and arguably his best yet in a Liverpool shirt.
With Roberto Firmino set to depart in just a few weeks after a glorious eight-year period, Gakpo is clearly being readied as the heir to the 'false 9' throne
Gakpo:
"I’m enjoying it,"
"It was a new position for me but it’s been good for me to develop as a player and I like it. [I can] drop a little, link the play, is something I can do to become an extra man in the midfield at times. I just have to find my spaces to help the midfielders and the attacker as much as I can."
It’s good for the coach to have a lot of options,"
"Every game is different, for another opponent you might need something else. It’s good to be able to mix it up. It’s nice to have such options. We needed that win to put pressure on the teams above us. The only thing we can do is get the best results we can possibly get."
Jordan Henderson:
"Cody has been brilliant since he came in the door,"
"I thought he was outstanding. It was a difficult period for us as a team but he’s been the one really who has been really consistent with his performances. He’s an outstanding player.
"He’s made a big difference for us in games. Hopefully it can continue, he is still young, he wants to learn all the time and he works so hard. Long may it continue.
"He's got different qualities that can help him defend as a No.10 to drop deep and get on the ball and help us in the build up, so like I say he has been incredible for me and hopefully he can keep that going. He's only been here a few months so hopefully he continues to grow and I am sure he will be a big player for the club."
Gakpo:
"It was an important win for us. As an attacking player, it’s always nice to score goals so I’m happy. The guys made me feel like I belonged here from the first minute I came in. I’m very grateful for how they treated me in the beginning. As time has gone on, I’ve become more comfortable and confident. I feel like this is home."
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