Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones Shine in Liverpool’s Midfield Against Arsenal
In Liverpool’s recent 2-2 Premier League draw with Arsenal, the performances of Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones were key talking points. David Lynch, speaking on Media Matters for Anfield Index, shared insights on how both players influenced the game’s flow, particularly in a challenging midfield battle against Arsenal. Lynch dissected each player’s impact, noting their roles in helping Liverpool adapt and compete, especially in the second half.
Dominik Szoboszlai’s Impact off the Bench
Lynch was full of praise for Dominik Szoboszlai, who came on as a substitute and provided a much-needed spark in the second half. “He just kicks them on again by showing his quality and showing his legs,” Lynch observed, noting that Szoboszlai’s energy and technical skills lifted Liverpool’s midfield. With Liverpool struggling to find rhythm, Szoboszlai’s introduction injected new momentum, allowing the team to press Arsenal and create more opportunities.
According to Lynch, Szoboszlai’s ability to bring stability in midfield proved crucial to Liverpool’s improved performance after halftime. “Liverpool were already getting better in midfield, and he just took them up another level,” he explained. Lynch also highlighted Szoboszlai’s role in defensive support, emphasising that he brought a balance to the midfield that had been lacking in the first half. This balance allowed Liverpool to control possession more effectively, setting up a more aggressive and organised second half.
Curtis Jones: The Tactical Adjustment
Curtis Jones started the game in Liverpool’s midfield, and though the first half was challenging, Lynch was quick to defend the decision to start him. He noted that the early struggles were “more the system than anything else” rather than Jones’ individual performance. Arsenal dominated much of the first half, pressing high and outnumbering Liverpool in central areas. Lynch believed Jones was left “chasing shadows” due to Arsenal’s tactical setup, which created a 4-vs-3 midfield overload that Liverpool initially struggled to manage.
Despite this, Lynch maintained that Jones’ inclusion was a reasonable call by Arne Slot, particularly after Jones’ standout performance against Chelsea. “I thought it was a fair call to drop Szoboszlai and start Jones,” Lynch commented, arguing that the tactical setup—rather than Jones’ performance—was the main issue in the first half. He added, “Jones wasn’t the problem,” and praised his work ethic, even when Liverpool struggled to maintain possession.
Szoboszlai vs. Jones: The Balance in Liverpool’s Midfield
Lynch noted that Liverpool’s midfield issues were addressed at halftime, with Slot making tactical adjustments and bringing on Szoboszlai to boost Liverpool’s tempo. This move underscored the importance of having versatile players like Szoboszlai and Jones, who each bring different attributes to Liverpool’s game. “Szoboszlai has that extra bit of quality around the final third,” Lynch observed, acknowledging that while Jones provides stability and possession, Szoboszlai offers dynamism and technical flair.
This balance between Jones’ composure and Szoboszlai’s energy became a focal point in Lynch’s analysis. He noted how Szoboszlai’s introduction allowed Liverpool to “solve the problem Arsenal posed in midfield” and control the pace of the game. Lynch suggested that Szoboszlai’s late impact could make him a valuable option for Slot, especially in matches where Liverpool need a surge in the second half.
Looking Ahead: Slot’s Midfield Options
As Liverpool look to maintain momentum, Lynch believes the mix of Szoboszlai’s creativity and Jones’ work rate will be essential for Slot’s tactical plans. While Szoboszlai’s performance against Arsenal might secure him more starts, Lynch argued that both players’ versatility adds depth and adaptability to Liverpool’s midfield. “Szoboszlai is a massively important part of this squad,” Lynch commented, seeing the Hungarian international as a pivotal figure as Liverpool push for consistency.
Ultimately, Lynch’s breakdown of Szoboszlai and Jones highlights the flexibility in Liverpool’s midfield. With Jones showing reliability and Szoboszlai bringing flair, Liverpool’s midfield looks primed for a season of tactical evolution. As Lynch pointed out, this depth will be crucial as Liverpool contend with high-intensity Premier League and Champions League matches.
