Jay Spearing Hails Szoboszlai Partnership as Liverpool Find Balance in Frankfurt
Liverpool’s emphatic 5-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt offered more than just three points in the Champions League – it may have reshaped Arne Slot’s midfield hierarchy. Among those catching the eye was Curtis Jones, whose commanding display alongside Dominik Szoboszlai has reignited discussion about his place in Liverpool’s best XI.
Spearing Backs Jones After Frankfurt Showcase
Former Liverpool midfielder and current academy coach Jay Spearing has praised Jones’ “exceptional” performance in Germany, suggesting that the 24-year-old may have forced his way into Slot’s strongest side. Speaking on The Official Liverpool FC Podcast, Spearing was full of admiration for the midfielder’s maturity and technical control.
“For me, Curtis has probably played himself into the team,” he said. “I thought he was exceptional tonight. Him and Dominik Szoboszlai controlled the whole game – the levels they played at were Champions League elite.”
It was a statement performance that came at the right time. Jones, who has struggled to find rhythm this season due to injury and competition for places, looked sharp and decisive throughout. His composure in possession and understanding with Szoboszlai stood out as Liverpool dominated large periods of play.
Szoboszlai Influence Growing Under Slot
While Jones earned plenty of recognition, the presence of Szoboszlai alongside him remains central to Liverpool’s improving midfield dynamic. The Hungarian international has gradually emerged as one of Slot’s most trusted players, blending work rate with creative spark.
His ability to dictate tempo and link defence to attack was crucial against Frankfurt. Together, the pair offered Liverpool both control and energy – something that had been missing in earlier fixtures this campaign.
Slot’s tactical shift, opting for a slightly more balanced midfield trio, appeared to unlock the best from Szoboszlai and Jones alike. The pressing patterns were cohesive, transitions were cleaner, and Liverpool’s passing lines looked significantly more assured than in previous outings.
Tactical Flexibility Key to Liverpool’s Progress
Slot’s willingness to adjust his formation may prove vital as the season develops. By restoring Hugo Ekitike to the starting line-up and giving Jones the freedom to operate slightly deeper, Liverpool found a rhythm that Frankfurt simply couldn’t disrupt after the opening goal.
Jones’ adaptability – able to play both as a traditional central midfielder and as a deeper creative link – adds a new dimension to the squad. With Ryan Gravenberch sidelined, this performance offered a glimpse of how Liverpool could maintain balance even without their regular midfield anchor.
Spearing’s endorsement carries weight, particularly given his role in shaping the club’s next generation. For Jones, the message is clear: consistency is now the challenge.
Slot’s Selection Dilemma Moving Forward
Whether Jones starts regularly remains to be seen. Slot has shown a preference for squad rotation, especially with players like Federico Chiesa adding attacking depth. Yet, performances like Frankfurt’s are difficult to ignore.
Jones’ chemistry with Szoboszlai gives Liverpool tactical variety – a blend of structure and spontaneity that could prove crucial in tighter contests. It’s a combination that not only impressed Spearing but may also have given Slot a welcome selection headache ahead of the Premier League’s return.
If the Frankfurt display is any indication, Liverpool’s midfield might just have found its balance again.
