Many people would agree that Curtis Jones initally struggled when he broke into Liverpool’s first team squad. Despite his goal against Everton in the FA Cup, he hadn’t produced a lot of memorable performances while in a red shirt, as people began to question what his future may look like.
After Liverpool’s lack luster 2022/23 campaign, Jones was provided chances at the tailend of the season to see what he could offer, and he took his chance. After losing 4-1 away at The Ethiad, he started 11 straight matches where Liverpool went undefeated. Many Liverpool fans would argue he’s become the ‘perfect’ Georginio Wijnaldum replacement after the Dutch midfielders departure in 2021.
One difference we are seeing in their games, at least in a Liverpool shirt, is the amount Jones is offering in the final third. He ranks in the 97th percentile for touches in the opposition penalty area per 90 (3.35) and 90th percentile for Progressive Carries per 90 (2.66) when compared to midfielders in Europe. Even when it comes to key chances, he’s averaging 0.21 non-penalty goals per 90 and 0.21 assists per 90.
Jones occupies the space out on the left extremely well as he links the play with the left winger and left back when Liverpool look to attack but when necessary, he makes dangerous runs through the centre, like his goal against West Ham in the Carabao Cup Quarter Final. His ability to dictate and find the space is a major part of his game, which can be vital to Liverpool’s chances in success.
However, his main contributing piece to Jurgen Klopp’s system is his pressing and counter pressing. This is very similar to Wijnaldum, who was a crucial part to the jigsaw for Klopp, as Jones’ pressing is within the highest in the squad, while also making a high number of turnovers. Add that to Jones’ high pass accuracy and his progressive passes/runs, he’s earnt himself a postion in the starting XI.
At 22, he still has to develop his game and he has, as he’s added a number of important goals and assists to his game. Even recently, when he scored the important equaliser vs Fulham in the Carabao Cup Semi Final as Liverpool went on to win 2-1.
The Liverpool born midfielder was gave a second oppurtunity at the club, and with injuries hopefully behind him, he looks to be a main stay in the team for the future.
Final Whistle 