LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND — Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has confirmed that Cody Gakpo is a doubt for Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Fulham at Anfield after the Netherlands international missed training this week due to an adductor injury.
Gakpo also sat out Liverpool’s 2-1 Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, and his potential absence would be a significant concern for Iraola as the Reds prepare to face a resurgent Fulham side at Anfield. The 27-year-old has made a strong start to the Premier League season, registering one goal and three assists in three appearances, and has been a key part of Liverpool’s attacking setup under the Spanish manager.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, Iraola said Gakpo would be assessed during the day’s training session before a final decision is made on his availability.
“Cody we will see. He didn’t train yesterday. Today, we will try with him and let’s see if he’s ready for tomorrow or we need to wait for the next one,” Iraola stated.
The Liverpool manager also provided positive news regarding Bradley Barcola, who experienced cramp during the second half of the Champions League win over Atletico Madrid. Iraola confirmed that the summer signing had not suffered an injury and is expected to be available against Fulham if he responds well to the recovery period.
“But Barcola was just cramps. Obviously, we finish the game and we have to evaluate how he feels today but there is no injury. He should be, I think, available if everything goes normal,” he added.
Iraola also discussed Hugo Ekitike, who continues his recovery from an anterior cruciate ligament injury. The manager suggested there is a possibility that the forward could return in January, although he stressed that the rehabilitation process remains at an early stage and no definitive timeline has been set.
Liverpool will make a late assessment of Gakpo before Saturday’s match, with Iraola expected to balance the player’s fitness against the demands of a busy schedule that includes Premier League and Champions League fixtures. The Reds are looking to maintain their strong start to the campaign, having won their opening three league matches and begun their European campaign with a hard-fought victory over Atletico Madrid.
Fulham, meanwhile, will arrive at Anfield with confidence after an impressive start to their own season. The Cottagers have been one of the surprise packages of the early campaign, and Iraola will be wary of the threat they pose. The Liverpool manager emphasised the importance of managing his squad carefully during a congested period of the season, noting that player welfare must be prioritised to avoid long-term injuries that could derail the club’s ambitions.
For now, all eyes will be on Gakpo’s fitness ahead of the match, with Liverpool supporters hoping the Dutchman can recover in time to feature in what promises to be a challenging encounter.
