Cody Gakpo defended amid criticism over Casemiro shirt request in Liverpool loss
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Liverpool FC NewsFeaturesCody GakpoCody Gakpo faced criticism on social media after appearing to request Casemiro's shirt following Liverpool's 3-2 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford, but many Reds fans were quick to defend the forwardCody Gakpo was seen asking for Casemiro's shirt at full-time(Image: Sky Sports)Liverpool fans have rushed to support Cody Gakpo after the striker came under fire for seemingly asking for Manchester United midfielder Casemiro's shirt following the 3-2 defeat at Old Trafford.The Netherlands international spearheaded Arne Slot's attack, scoring Liverpool's equalizing goal shortly before the hour mark, before Kobbie Mainoo netted a late winner in the second period to condemn the Reds to defeat.It proved a frustrating day for Liverpool, who fell two goals behind inside the opening 14 minutes, with Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko both finding the net for United. Slot's side demonstrated character in the second period, with Dominik Szoboszlai reducing the deficit before Gakpo restored parity.READ MORE: Arne Slot error proves costly as Liverpool and Man Utd reality clear - 5 talking pointsREAD MORE: Jamie Carragher reveals long-term Liverpool 'worry' as he calls for summer transfer actionThe 26-year-old drew criticism from certain sections on social media for apparently seeking Casemiro's shirt following the final whistle.One fan drew attention to the incident and commented: "Gakpo asking for Casemiro's shirt there.
What's happened to this club?"However, numerous supporters were quick to defend the Liverpool forward.Gakpo has faced criticism on social media(Image: Getty Images)One fan commented: "It doesn't matter who's shirt they ask for, get a grip," while another responded: "Brother let it rest, it's just mutual respect."A Liverpool victory would have sealed the club's spot in next season's Champions League, and Slot made no secret of his frustration at his side's failure to claim anything from the match."We weren't able to control their strengths," the Liverpool manager said following the defeat. "We were aware that they had strengths, two of them are set-pieces and the counterattack."The first goal we concede is a set-piece and the second one, you have to know where to lose the ball against United, who are really strong and aggressive in a low block, and you play the ball into the middle, where is Casemiro and Mainoo and their center-backs."If you lose it, they have so many fast players, and Bruno Fernandes to hurt you in transition.
One of their strengths is also defending in a low block and [launching] a counterattack."That's why in the second half I tried to play a bit more on both sides with the wingers. We went, in the first half, a little bit too much for the middle and they counter you."Choose Liverpool.com as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.Liverpool FCCody GakpoManchester United FC