Why is Cody Gakpo benched for Liverpool vs Fulham in Premier League 2026-27?

The Cottagers have only managed one win in their last five encounters against the Reds!

Fulham have arrived at Anfield, and they are going to have a face-off against Cody Gakpo’s Liverpool. These sides are going to come up with an entertaining clash. All for the fourth matchweek of the English Premier League 2026-27 campaign.

The Andoni Iraola-led side have put in some decent performances in their first three games of the English top division. They have managed one win and were held to a draw on two occasions. Their performances show the Reds are struggling in the backline.

The experienced defender Virgil van Dijk must step up his game out there. Liverpool still have a lot to figure out with whom to play in their final third. They have used Alexander Isak as their primary no. 9, who has done well for them.

He has scored three goals in the first three games. The former Newcastle United man will be looking to add more to his tally. With Florian Wirtz in the attacking midfield position, it is going to be another advantage for the Reds.

Cody Gakpo has come up with some good performances, but is on the bench. Let us find out why.

Also Read: Liverpool vs Fulham Preview – prediction, team news, lineups | Premier League 2026-27

Why is Cody Gakpo benched against Fulham?

Cody Gakpo is starting on the bench for Liverpool vs Fulham in Premeir League 2026-27 clash. He sustained minor adductor issues in both legs after playing full 90 minutes against Ipswich Town. The Dutchman has trained just a day before the matchweek 4 fixture of the Reds and Andoni Iraola has included him in the squad.

This means that there is a chance that he can make an appearance off the bench for Liverpool in the second half. New joinee Bradley Barcola is starting on the left flank. Víctor Muñoz will be present on the right side to help his side in the attacking front.

Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai are going to be an important aspect for the Reds in the midfield. Their work rate will be crucial. In the backline, Kostas Tsimikas is starting instead of Milos Kerkez, who faced some minor issues during the UEFA Champions League game against Atletico Madrid.

Tsimikas will be accompanied by Virgil van Dijk, Jeremy Jacquet and Ronald Araujo. Guarding the goal is once again Alisson Becker.

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