Liverpool secured a 3-1 victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, but their performance in the first half left much to be desired.
The Reds found themselves trailing 1-0 at halftime due to a lackluster showing in the opening 45 minutes, with players appearing sloppy.
One player who drew criticism for his first-half performance was Cody Gakpo.
According to reports from Gregor Robertson on The Game Football Podcast, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp had a strong reaction to Gakpo’s mistakes during the game.
Klopp was seen berating the Dutchman after he carelessly gave away possession just before Wolves scored their opening goal.
Robertson on Liverpool’s first half display against Wolverhampton Wanderers
Robertson, who covered the match at Molineux for The Times, described this incident from the press box.
“There are still massive questions about the balance in the midfield for me. They were woeful (in the first half). There was no energy, no bite, and no cohesion. He berated Cody Gakpo just before Wolves scored the opening goal. It was a long throw and he threw a leg at it and they broke away and scored the opener,”
Robertson said.
The performance in the first half raised concerns about Liverpool’s midfield balance, as they lacked energy, intensity, and cohesion.
Klopp’s visible frustration at Gakpo’s mistake highlighted the team’s struggles in that period. Gakpo’s rash challenge from a long throw-in allowed Wolves to counter and score their opening goal.
Klopp’s passionate response on the sidelines likely included some stern words, and it seemed to have an impact.
Liverpool emerged from halftime as a different team, turning the game around to secure the win.
Klopp’s ability to motivate and address issues with his team during the interval played a crucial role in their second-half resurgence.
Next up for the Merseyside club is a Europa League clash versus Austrian side LASK. The UEL nights will be back for Liverpool this Thursday.
Liverpool is my Religion and Anfield is my Church. 17th May 1996 the date I had my blood coloured red. The one you love the most you can not live without it and that is football to me.
