Anfield Index
·15 novembre 2024
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Yahoo sportsAnfield Index
·15 novembre 2024
God, these engaged fans are so annoying with their takes. Liverpool fans have always known, haven’t they? For years, Curtis Jones has shown glimpses of brilliance in red, but the wider footballing world is finally waking up. After a spellbinding performance in his England debut last night, crowned with a goal and a Man of the Match award, it’s time the world actually take some notice. Although hypocritical, it unfortunately means he won’t have real rest during the breaks.
Jones’ England bow wasn’t just good—it was historic. The numbers underline a flawless outing: • 1 goal • 96% passing accuracy (65/68) • 7 duels won • 7x possession won • 4 tackles • 2 fouls won • 1 interception
For an international debut, this level of composure, intelligence, and end-product is rare. England’s midfield, once a subject of worry, suddenly feels a lot more secure with Jones in the mix. The first competitive debut goal away in 42 years.
Photo: IMAGO
Jones’ England heroics come at a pivotal moment in his club career. At the start of the season, he found himself behind Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Ryan Gravenberch in Liverpool’s midfield hierarchy. Fast forward a few months, and his form demands he’s now among the first names on the team sheet.
This season for Liverpool, Jones has racked up 683 minutes across all competitions, delivering 1 goal and 3 assists, tallying a goal contribution every 170 minutes. Highlights include his winning strike against Chelsea, a commanding display in the Champions League against Bayer Leverkusen, and now this England masterclass. His match-winning contributions are becoming a habit—something any top midfielder thrives on.
What’s striking about Jones isn’t just his output but his evolution. This season, under Arne Slot, he’s emerged as a dynamic presence in Liverpool’s engine room, capable of controlling games, breaking lines, and creating chances. Slot’s system has clearly unlocked something in Jones—his ability to dictate tempo has drawn comparisons to some of Europe’s elite midfielders.
Photo: IMAGO
His positional intelligence and ability to adapt between attacking and central midfield have been critical to Liverpool’s resurgence. He’s even nudged ahead of Szoboszlai in form, showcasing a consistency that’s eluded many of his peers. Liverpool fans have seen this coming, but his England debut feels like a turning point. For club and country, Jones looks ready to fulfil his potential.
With Thomas Tuchel set to take over as England manager, it’s fascinating yet uncertain how Jones might fit into the new regime. Tuchel’s emphasis on tactical flexibility and high-energy systems could elevate Jones’ game further, but it also presents fresh challenges. Will Jones thrive under Tuchel’s philosophy, or will the tactical demands shift the balance of England’s midfield? Either way, if Jones continues performing at this level, it’s hard to see any manager leaving him out. Which isn’t what we want, but is well deserved. Bet that CF Comps lad is a hitwuiet at the moment eh.