Liverpool ends losing streak as Gakpo shines without Salah
Liverpool snapped a three-game skid with a 2-0 triumph over West Ham. Cody Gakpo played a pivotal role, netting a goal and setting up another. Meanwhile, Mohamed Salah was omitted from the squad entirely.
Manager Arne Slot made a surprising choice by benching Salah as an unused substitute. The Egyptian striker has managed five goals in 17 matches this season, trailing Erling Haaland's 19 in the same span. His absence coincided with Gakpo's standout performance, earning 110 points in Dream Team and moving joint-third among forwards alongside Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Liverpool's recent woes included losses to Manchester City, Nottingham Forest, and PSV in November. The win against West Ham marked a turnaround, though questions persist about Salah's role. Despite his lower output, he remains the third-most expensive forward in Dream Team, priced at £6.6m with 21.7% ownership.
No updates were provided on Salah's availability for matchday 14 against Leeds United or his potential Africa Cup of Nations involvement.
Gakpo's performance has vaulted him ahead of Salah in the rankings for now. Liverpool's victory halted their losing streak, but Slot's decision to exclude Salah sparks further debate. The forward's future involvement remains uncertain as the season unfolds.
