Curtis Jones struggles for Liverpool v Forest after Arne Slot’s tactical miscalculation | OneFootball

Liverpool claimed a hard-fought win over Nottingham Forest thanks to a late goal from Alexis Mac Allister.

The Reds will be happy to take all three points after an uninspiring performance.

Liverpool struggled to gain a foothold in the game, particularly because the midfield couldn’t keep hold of the ball. Curtis Jones was a major culprit.

The Liverpool ace swapped right-back duties for his natural position in midfield and failed to provide the quality in possession that his side needed.

Jones lost 9/12 duels, made three errors leading to shots, and lost possession 12 times.

He was dribbled past once and failed to put his stamp on the game despite recording many touches on the ball.

Liverpool’s midfield was crying out for someone to take charge of proceedings, but Jones could not step up.

Typically, Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch take the most flak. They have been off-form this season, and it is easy to single them out for their poor performances.

However, today, Jones, who has been lauded as ‘complete’, was clearly the weak link in the engine room.

If anything, this display should give Liverpool boss Arne Slot food for thought ahead of the next fixture.

When Liverpool beat Brighton & Hove Albion in the FA Cup days ago, Jones impressed at right-back.

From that role, the 25-year-old could step into midfield zones without being burdened by the responsibility of dictating the tempo.

If Florian Wirtz remains sidelined for the next match, Slot should seriously consider reverting to what previously brought success.

Move Jones back to right-back and restore Dominik Szoboszlai to the midfield to inject drive.

Liverpool lacked incision and authority in the centre of the park against Forest. Szoboszlai offers verticality, ball-carrying and a willingness to shoot from range.

Jones, by contrast, looked overrun and unsure. He worked well at right-back in the FA Cup. There was structure, clarity and rhythm.

Why Slot decided to reverse their roles for this game is anyone’s guess.