Curtis Jones: The Skillset That Makes Him Essential for Liverpool

Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones continues to be a subject of debate among fans and pundits. Despite showing immense potential, his performances often go underappreciated. The latest episode of LFC Panenka dives deep into why Jones could be crucial under new manager Arne Slot, especially with his unique skillset. Let’s explore what makes Jones a great option for Liverpool and why he could be key to their future success.

Curtis Jones: A Different Kind of Player

During the podcast, the hosts emphasised that Jones’ skillset is often overlooked because of his background. “If Curtis Jones was called Cty Jonas, had a Spanish passport, and was playing for Barcelona or Real Madrid, people would put him in line to be a future Ballon d’Or winner,” the podcast argued, highlighting a sentiment that Jones’ English roots might be holding back his recognition.

Jones has been versatile throughout his career, capable of playing as a number eight or on the flanks. However, the team noted a shift in his role under Slot. In pre-season games, Jones was seen “playing as the second pivot player,” a position he’s adjusted to, bringing a different dimension to Liverpool’s midfield. This adaptability showcases his wide range of talents, particularly his press resistance, which the hosts believe sets him apart.

Press Resistance and Ball Control

The term “press resistance” has become a buzzword in football, but it perfectly fits Jones. According to LFC Panenka, Jones’ technique, composure, and ability to manipulate the ball with both feet make him one of the most press-resistant players in the game today. They praised his skill, saying, “You can almost always count on him to not only keep the ball using his body to shield it, but also to get away from tricky situations and tight spaces.”

This press resistance was on full display during Liverpool’s turnaround last season. After a difficult start, the team went unbeaten for the remainder of the campaign, a period that coincided with Jones’ presence on the pitch. As the podcast noted, “Curtis Jones’ start marked a change in the Reds’ fortune,” especially in a crucial match against Chelsea.

Athleticism: A Great Option for Tough Matches

Curtis Jones’ skillset is not limited to when Liverpool have possession. His athleticism provides a different advantage when the team is out of possession, and this is where the podcast saw him as a potential starter in tough matches. Discussing Jones’ role against Chelsea, they observed that Jones could “burst out in full speed to catch up with the player and stop him from progressing the ball.”

One of the most striking points made was about his athleticism compared to Alexis Mac Allister. “The key word here is athleticism… Mac Allister, despite his high work rate, doesn’t have the physical ability to cover ground the way Curtis Jones does,” the podcast explained. The belief is that Jones could be the perfect partner for Gravenberch in a double pivot, particularly in games where physicality can determine the outcome.

Why Curtis Jones Deserves More Recognition

The podcast wrapped up by addressing criticisms of Jones’ supposed inconsistency. They argue that these criticisms overlook the fact that he has been hampered by injuries and a lack of consistent game time. “Can you really remain consistent without a proper run of games?” the podcast asked, suggesting that with regular starts, Jones could fulfil his potential and become a key player for Arne Slot.

Jones’ story is one of resilience and versatility. While others may focus on his statistics or lack of flashy highlights, LFC Panenka sees the subtler aspects of his game, like his ball control, athleticism, and ability to adapt to different roles on the pitch. Whether as a deep-lying midfielder or pushing forward, Jones remains a great option for Slot’s Liverpool, and his skillset makes him a valuable asset for the team moving forward.

Curtis Jones may not be universally celebrated, but as LFC Panenka emphasised, his unique abilities make him a player to watch. “We tried to prove our point about Jones on different occasions… today is another opportunity to highlight why Curtis Jones is a unique type of player,” they stated, underlining their belief that he will be crucial for Liverpool under Arne Slot.

With Jones’ versatility, press resistance, and athleticism, there’s every reason to believe that this “scout lad” could play a pivotal role in Liverpool’s success this season. His adaptability in different positions, along with his technical and physical prowess, provide Liverpool with great options, making him an essential part of their squad. Only time will tell if he can maintain his form and finally receive the recognition he deserves, but as the podcast rightly pointed out, Jones is a player who can make a significant impact, even if it’s not always obvious.