We’ve all done it, haven’t we? Jumped on the hype train of the new kid on the block, before bringing the previously accelerating vehicle of praise to a crashing halt. We just can’t help but take our attention to the newest trend, whilst leaving behind the equally as good past craze. And that’s exactly what happened to Curtis Jones. In truth, not many would have taken to non gamstop betting sites to bet on Liverpool needing him so much, either. In fact, they would have predicted the opposite.
The Liverpool youngster was left behind at the start of the season, as fans clung onto new wonder-kid Harvey Elliott. All of a sudden, despite ticking most boxes when looking to succeed at Anfield, Jones found himself thrown to one side. Elliott’s emergence resulted in the disregarding of a Scouse, talented, young midfielder. And most players in that situation would settle for the position in the shadows – consigned to appearing on ‘most underrated player’ YouTube videos. Not Jones, however. No, instead, he waited for his opportunity to send reminders of his talent, and since that chance has arrived, he has not looked back.
Against Porto, simply put, it was the Curtis Jones show. Everyone else at the Estádio do Dragão were simply opening acts, waiting for the academy graduate to conduct Liverpool to a five-star victory.
Curtis Jones: The Forgotten Star Sending Timely Reminders
Form Should Hand Curtis Jones Start Against Manchester City
There are not many better compliments that you can pay a Liverpool player, than that they deserve a start against the Premier League champions. It is one of, if not the biggest game of the Reds’ season. Beat City and they are a significant step towards a second Premier League title – even when so early into the campaign. Jurgen Klopp must get it right; the German has plenty of decisions to make, including the one regarding Curtis Jones’ place.
The 20-year-old’s form, scoring once and assisting a further three times in his last two games, creates quite the conundrum for Klopp. Does he hand a return to Naby Keita – arguably the more dynamic, and possession-based midfielder? Or will Jones get the nod – the less experienced, but more goals-included player? It is a decision that could make or break the game, and one only Klopp can make correctly.
The one thing that can be said, though, is how good it is to see Jones among these discussions. At the beginning of the season, after being left out entirely in three out of the first four league games, Jones’ position came into question – as did his expendability. People began to ask whether or not there is a ‘right offer’ for Jones; whether or not Liverpool could offload him for the potential betterment of their squad. But he remained resolute, and is now thriving once more.
Porto Performance Particularly impressive
If you’re a Liverpool player, a game against Porto presents the perfect opportunity for an evening of goals galore, and an enjoyable performance. The Portuguese giants just cannot escape the wrath of Klopp and his side. And this season was no different, as the rampant Reds hit five in ruthless fashion, with Curtis Jones assisting two of those goals.
By the time the referee signalled for full-time, the aforementioned Scouser had put in an all-round, midfield performance, with two assists, four dribbles – the most in the game – and the most chances created, with three. In the absence of Thiago Alcantara, Jones took the baton before beautifully conducting Liverpool’s heavy metal football.
It was a performance to send reminders; reminders that Curtis Jones is still world class, and still very much an increasingly important part of this Liverpool side.
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