Liverpool winger Cody Gakpo fit make history by scoring in Reds first Premier League match of the year for third straight season when dem host Leeds United for Anfield on Thursday.
Gakpo Return and Team Competition
Gakpo don just return from muscular injury as late sub in 2-1 win over Wolves. With Curtis Jones, Alexis Mac Allister, and Ryan Gravenberch forcing their way into first team, Gakpo fit start on bench again. Florian Wirtz and Dominik Szoboszlai dey first choice for wide positions currently.
On Track to Equal Ian Rush Record
Gakpo don score Liverpool first Premier League game of year in last two calendar years: 4-2 win vs Newcastle in 2024 and 2-2 draw vs Manchester United last year. If e score on Thursday, e go be first Liverpool player to score in Reds’ opening Premier League game for three consecutive seasons since all-time top scorer Ian Rush (1985–1987).
Season Stats
Gakpo don already score five goals and provide four assists from 21 games across all competitions, including four goals and three assists in Premier League. Fans dey call for him drop before injury due to inconsistent form during Mohamed Salah AFCON absence.
Leeds Challenge
Liverpool never lose back-to-back home league matches to Leeds. Last visit, Leeds beat Liverpool 2-1 in October 2022, first time since April 2001. Thursday match follow 3-3 draw at Elland Road in December, wey Salah rant after the game. Liverpool don score 19 goals in last five Premier League matches against Leeds, almost four per game.
Prediction
Gakpo fit start on bench, but history and form suggest he fit find net. Liverpool dey on hot streak and ready to maintain unbeaten home record vs Leeds, while Gakpo dey set to copy Ian Rush legendary feat.
