Gakpo delivers again

In every single Liverpool game he has started this season, Cody Gakpo has produced a golden moment in front of goal. A goal at Newcastle on the opening weekend, a silky assist against Nottingham Forest, assists for both goals in the win over Ipswich, another one and a goal against Tottenham in the Carabao Cup - but this intervention in the 1-0 win at Bournemouth was the best of the lot.

With Liverpool struggling for attacking influence, Gakpo's hard-fought run and cross down the right wing was vital in the build-up to Alexander Isak's winner. "The difficult part of the goal is from him," said Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola about Gakpo, who is unfortunate not to be accredited with the assist.

But Gakpo also starred defensively at the Vitality Stadium, winning more duels than any other player on the pitch. He shut down one of the Cherries' biggest threats. "I know Adrien Truffert very well and he demands a lot from you defensively. Cody has been very important in both ways," added Iraola.

When Gakpo is absent, Liverpool are not the same team - as seen in the goalless draw with Fulham where the Dutchman was only fit enough for the bench. Looking at this form, it is absolutely staggering that Liverpool considered sanctioning the sale of Gakpo this summer. Where would they be without him?

Bournemouth's growing concerns

From the highs of their first win in Europe against Real Sociedad on Thursday to the lows of yet another defeat in the Premier League, Bournemouth now go into the three-week international break without a win. A sour note to leave on given the joy that followed from their victory in San Sebastian.

Neither side impressed at the Vitality Stadium and for the most part, the Cherries looked the more likely team to go on and snatch three points. But with Justin Kluivert sidelined through injury and no other changes made from the team in midweek, they just did not have the legs to go one step further in front of goal.

Marco Rose has made just two changes to their Premier League starting XIs this season, the fewest of any side. That is not sustainable while balancing European football. Rotation is needed to keep this squad fit; otherwise they risk slipping into an unwanted relegation battle this season.