Liverpool’s Dominant EFL Cup Performance Against West Ham: Analyzing Key Moments

Liverpool’s 5-1 victory over West Ham in the EFL Cup showcased the quality of Arne Slot’s side, with key performances from both senior and academy players. The game, filled with drama and controversy, highlighted the contrasting approaches of both clubs. Dave Hendrick discussed Liverpool’s win in detail on the Daily Red Podcast, revealing key insights into the match.

Cody Gakpo’s Impact

One of the major talking points was Cody Gakpo’s performance. As Dave Hendrick noted, “Cody was really, really good as he was against Milan. He just seems to finally be playing his size.” Gakpo contributed significantly, scoring twice and combining well with Darwin Núñez. Hendrick praised his ability to “create separation,” allowing him to be more effective in the final third, which had been a challenge for him in previous matches.

Hendrick further observed, “Cody can’t get shots away or get his crosses in if he doesn’t have separation.” This was key to Gakpo’s success against West Ham, where he not only created space but also delivered precise finishes that led to his two goals. His consistency in striking the ball was also noted, with Hendrick adding, “It’s a very consistent striking motion… but it’s a very long action for him to strike the ball.”

Mo Salah’s Unstoppable Form

Mohamed Salah, another standout performer, came off the bench to make an immediate impact. Hendrick joked about Salah’s persistence, saying, “My assumption is Mo is just sat there from minute one asking, ‘When am I going on?’… and eventually, he just wears the manager down.” Salah’s relentless desire to play was rewarded when he scored Liverpool’s third goal. Hendrick highlighted Salah’s effectiveness off the bench, revealing that “Mo now has the third most goals as a substitute of any player in Liverpool’s history.”

Salah’s goal came after Alexis Mac Allister’s initial shot was saved, with the Egyptian forward finishing the rebound to seal the game for the Reds. Hendrick emphasized the importance of Salah’s contributions: “He wants to score… a sensational individual, absolutely sensational.”

Liverpool’s Use of Academy Players

One key aspect of Liverpool’s approach that Hendrick highlighted was the use of academy players. “Four academy graduates started the game,” Hendrick proudly mentioned, contrasting this with West Ham, who had no academy players in their squad. For Liverpool, academy products like Conor Bradley, Jarell Quansah, and Curtis Jones played vital roles, with Bradley providing a crucial assist for Mac Allister.

Hendrick also spoke highly of Curtis Jones, who “followed up another good showing” after his cameo against Bournemouth. The inclusion of young talent, according to Hendrick, is what competitions like the EFL Cup should be about: “The purpose of a competition like the EFL Cup should be to start blooding young players and getting young players minutes.”

West Ham’s Disappointing Approach

West Ham, traditionally known for their academy, was criticized for not fielding any academy players. Hendrick expressed his disappointment: “Not one academy player in their 20-man squad… really, really odd for West Ham United.” He contrasted West Ham’s rich history of producing academy talents, from Rio Ferdinand to Declan Rice, with their current lack of youth integration.

Hendrick also questioned West Ham’s strategy of fielding expensive but underperforming players. He noted, “Kilman at 40 million… he’s a good centre-back, but he’s not a 40 million centre-back.” The criticism extended to their defensive woes, with Hendrick pointing out that West Ham’s high-cost defence could not contain Liverpool’s attacking threat.

Conclusion

Liverpool’s 5-1 demolition of West Ham was a testament to the club’s depth, both in terms of academy talent and senior players. Gakpo’s brilliance, Salah’s consistency, and the contributions of young players like Curtis Jones and Conor Bradley ensured a dominant performance. Meanwhile, West Ham’s lack of youth integration and their reliance on expensive signings left many questioning the club’s direction.

As Hendrick summarised, “Last night was good,” and it seems Liverpool’s blend of youth and experience is a formula for success in the ongoing EFL Cup campaign.