Elliott grown into the game. A+ for effort but lots of headless chicken syndrome early on, but some good passes and goal.
As for Gakpo, I think you will see what you expect. This applies to all players. If you’re waiting for him to make a mistake, you’ll remember it when he does. If you’re hoping for him to do well, then when he almost assists Elliott, then that’s what you remember.
Not the worst half we played in recent months. Both sides had opportunities through counter attack and both appeared cagey about making mistakes. 1-1 is about right for the first half. Now the 2nd half will be about who focuses better and make chances count. Gakpo is getting into the groove alot more than his first 2 games for us and that bodes well. Salah has played alot better than in the games after World Cup. Good goal from Elliot. Midfield has good moments from Bajcetic and Keita. Thiago hardworking to hustle. TAA again frustrating at times watching him defend, so good when throwing passes forward but then the next moment, Mitoma waltz past him like he is not there. The midfielders need to double team with TAA when Mitoma gets the ball, one on one, Mitoma is going to win every single day.
Apart from teh finishing, Salah has been more like his old self making those runs inside.
Darwin for Gakpo would be my first change at 60 mins (or shift Gakpo to the left). Would like to see Darwin through the middle against Dunk and Webster.
If people have it in their minds he’s a flop before he’s kicked a ball then it’s an interesting point…I’d go 1 further and say they’d only remember the mistakes they’re waiting for him to make.