Cody Gakpo told PSV reception to expect as ex-coach pays emotional tribute

Twan Scheepers played a key role in Cody Gakpo development at PSV Eindhoven – and the pair have remained close ever since – as the forward prepares to return to his boyhood club with Liverpool

Cody Gakpo’s former youth-team coach has paid an emotional tribute to the Liverpool forward for being a tower of strength while his wife was losing her battle with cancer.

Twan Scheepers, who had a spell at Derby County during Phillip Cocu’s time as manager, has revealed how Gakpo helped him and son Tuen as Carola fought bravely against the disease before passing away at the age of 53.

Scheepers played a key role in the Dutchman’s development at PSV Eindhoven – and the pair have remained close ever since.

Speaking ahead of Gakpo’s return to his old club to play for Liverpool in the Champions League, Scheepers said: “Cody has gone through the whole period with us. He kept sending messages all the time and he paid visits a number of times. Together with my wife and son we were able to go to Anfield to see Cody in action.

“The way he has supported us, shows what an incredible and loving person he is, next to all his qualities as a footballer.’ Cody is going to get such a massive welcome in the Philips Stadium. He is a lad from our city, from our club and from our academy.

“He has been immensely important for PSV Eindhoven and he has made big steps in his career. If anyone deserves all the success right now, it is him.”

Gakpo was hailed as the new Arjen Robben when he was coming through the ranks at Eindhoven. He snubbed Manchester United for a £40million switch to Anfield in January 2023 after starring for Holland at the Qatar World Cup.

And the 25-year-old has been in sensational form after being unleashed by new boss Arne Slot this season.

Scheepers added: “In the beginning, it was tough for Cody at Liverpool. He was looking for the best position suitable for him.

“He was playing in the striker’s role for a short while, he also played behind the striker. But I know he is most dangerous when he is coming from the left wing. Then he can use his big weapon, cutting inside and shooting with those great powerful curved shots.

“It is so impressive how he has risen to this level at Liverpool, in the Premier League and in Europe. He really is a top player, an important player now for Liverpool. Every time he gets the ball, something happens on the pitch.”

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