Andy Gray has identified Bradley Barcola, Alexander Isak, and Cody Gakpo as Liverpool's ideal front three currently. The former striker argues that once Gakpo is fit, he should replace Rio Nguoma in the starting line-up.
In the recent Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid, which Liverpool won 2-1, manager Andoni Iraola deployed Isak in central attack, Barcola on the right, and Nguoma on the left.
The 18-year-old Nguoma earned his starting place due to a fitness issue affecting Gakpo, who had reported discomfort in his adductor muscles after a match against Ipswich.
Speaking about Gakpo, Iraola said:
Cody finished the game against Ipswich with some discomfort in his adductor muscles on both sides. It’s nothing serious; it’s not a full-on injury.
However, we didn’t want to risk him. I think it was sensible to give him a rest and try to get him back. If he’s not ready for the weekend, he’ll come back for the next match. But there is a chance he can play this weekend.
Nguoma performed decently against Atletico, but Gray maintains that Gakpo should reclaim his spot once fit.
On talkSPORT, Andy Gray commented:
I think right now, with all three fit, Gakpo should start instead of Nguoma.
I would choose it that way because the lad is still learning and developing.
Barcola should definitely be in the starting line-up, Isak is a given, and then you have to decide who takes the last spot. At the moment, I’d choose Gakpo based on his form at the start of the season.
Gakpo has kicked off the new campaign with one goal and three assists in three Premier League matches.
