“Ball is in safe hands”: Slot hails Curtis Jones’ seamless switch to right-back amid Liverpool’s defensive crisis | OneFootball

Arne Slot has said he has been impressed with how Curtis Jones has adapted to the right-back role at Liverpool.

Jones has deputised at right-back in recent weeks as Slot has sought to solve the club's problem position.

Conor Bradley's season-ending injury and Jeremie Frimpong's injury-impacted debut campaign has left Liverpool light defensively this season. Jones is one of several players to have filled in, alongside fellow midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai and centre-back Joe Gomez.

The former has produced impressive performances at right-back in recent wins over Everton and Crystal Palace.

Slot has been pleased with how the 25-year-old has handled the task, admitting 'the ball is in safe hands' with Jones. The midfielder is again expected to feature at right-back when Liverpool face Manchester United in thePremier League this weekend.

"He's taken to it very well. Not perfect, but that is normal. But very well,"Slot said ahead of this weekend's trip to Old Trafford.

"He has hardly played there in his career but the way he does is a big compliment. He twice played well, and against Palace was better than Everton in terms of defensively.

"He shows great personality in whatever position he plays. Always wants the ball and never scared to take a risk, which is something he may have to adjust playing in the last line than in midfield.

"It is one of his qualities to bring himself out of a tough position. Usually the ball is in safe hands as he's very good on it."

Jones's performances could accelerate talks over a new contract. The academy graduate's deal will enter its final 12 months this summer, with clubs including Inter Milan, Tottenham Hotspur, and Aston Villa monitoring the situation. The England international is keen for assurances over his role going forward, having started only 14 league games in 2025/26.