Hendrick: ‘Gakpo’s Milan performance warrants another start against Bournemouth’ | OneFootball

Liverpool vs Bournemouth: Key Insights from AEye Scouted Podcast

Liverpool’s upcoming Premier League fixture against Bournemouth promises to be a compelling contest. Discussed at length by Dave Hendrick and Karl Matchett on the AEye Scouted podcast, this match highlights the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for both teams. As Liverpool seeks to maintain momentum after a Champions League win, Bournemouth will aim to bounce back after a narrow loss to Chelsea.

Bournemouth’s Resilience Under Iraola

The podcast highlighted how much Bournemouth has improved under Andoni Iraola. Despite their defeat to Chelsea, Bournemouth has looked a much stronger side than they did last season. As Dave Hendrick pointed out, “They had more shots, more shots on target, and should have won the game.” Bournemouth’s start to the season — one win, two draws, and a single defeat — showcases their progress. Their performances against teams like Nottingham Forest and Newcastle have been particularly commendable, and while losing to Chelsea stings, Bournemouth fans should be encouraged by the way the team has competed.

Karl Matchett added, “Bournemouth’s game against Chelsea was quite even, and missing that penalty shifted the momentum.” The pair agreed that Bournemouth’s new signings, like Evanilson, could make a big impact as the season progresses. However, questions remain over the long-term fitness of key players like Tyler Adams.

Liverpool’s Tactical Questions and Squad Rotation

Switching focus to Liverpool, Hendrick and Matchett analysed how the Reds should line up against Bournemouth. While Liverpool secured a “confidence-boosting win” in the Champions League, both contributors voiced concerns over squad depth, particularly at left-back. “Andy Robertson had been fine until the Forest game,” Hendrick stated, “but last weekend’s performance showed cracks.” Similarly, Kostas Tsimikas did not impress in his start, leaving a dilemma for Liverpool’s defensive setup.

The discussion suggested that Joe Gomez might deserve a look at left-back: “He’s been more consistent at left-back than at right-back or centre-back for Liverpool,” Hendrick argued. Gomez has been a reliable utility player in Liverpool’s squad and may help balance the team against Bournemouth’s attacking threats.

Offensively, the conversation centred around whether Cody Gakpo should retain his place in the starting XI. After an excellent performance in the Champions League, Gakpo is making a strong case. As Hendrick put it, “Cody’s performance warrants another start, and it could mean a reshuffle in the attack.”

Tough Test Ahead for Liverpool

The Scouted team stressed that this game against Bournemouth won’t be an easy win for Liverpool. Bournemouth’s improved tactical structure under Iraola, combined with the dangerous counter-attacking threats they possess, could pose problems. “This is a team that can counter against the big clubs but also keep possession effectively when needed,” Hendrick noted. Both agreed that Liverpool needs to be sharp from the start to avoid the kind of lapses seen in their last Premier League fixture.