Curtis Jones: A Season of Highs, Lows, and Unfulfilled Potential
Curtis Jones’ season with Liverpool and the national team has been a microcosm of highs and lows, ending with a sense of what could have been. This sentiment was echoed by Ian Doyle in the Liverpool Echo, who detailed Jones’ journey from promising beginnings to frustrating setbacks.
The National Team Setback
Curtis Jones found himself on the provisional 33-man squad for the upcoming European Championships, a testament to his progress and potential. However, it was no shock to see him cut from the squad after failing to feature in the friendly win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Gareth Southgate’s words to Jones were encouraging, recognizing his strides within the group and hinting at future opportunities.
Southgate’s message was clear: “You have made great strides within the group and will be called upon again in the not-so-distant future.”
A Season of What Ifs
Jones’ campaign with Liverpool mirrored his experience with the national team. His season was marred by untimely suspensions and injuries just as he was gaining momentum. Before the season, Jones had high hopes, coming off a match-winning performance for England in the U21 Euros. He welcomed the arrival of new midfielders at Anfield, seeing it as a continuation of his battle to remain a first-team regular.
In a pivotal friendly against Bayern Munich, Jones started in the number six role, but the results were mixed. An ankle injury, a contentious red card at Tottenham Hotspur, and a thigh problem meant he had started just four Premier League games by the time Arsenal visited two days before Christmas.
However, Jones showed flashes of brilliance. He scored twice in the League Cup against West Ham United and was named captain in a Europa League match against Union Saint-Gilloise, sparking his best run of form of the campaign. He netted against Newcastle United, Fulham, and Norwich City, starting nine out of ten games before another ankle injury at Brentford brought his season to a halt.
Missed Opportunities and Future Challenges
Jones missed the League Cup final win over Chelsea and struggled to regain his sharpness upon his return. In his four remaining starts, Liverpool lost three matches against Atalanta, Crystal Palace, and Everton. Despite these setbacks, Jones’ talent and potential are undeniable. At only 23 years old, he has already made 133 appearances for Liverpool.
The departure of one of his biggest supporters, Jurgen Klopp, adds another layer of challenge for Jones. New head coach Arne Slot may bring a fresh perspective and tactical approach that could benefit Jones. Slot’s potential 4-2-3-1 formation could see Jones utilized as one of two deep-lying midfielders or in a more advanced role, leveraging his versatility.
The Road Ahead
Jones’ versatility and resilience have been his hallmarks throughout his Liverpool career. From starting as an attacking winger at the Academy to adapting to various midfield roles, he has shown a tenacity to fight his way back into contention. This trait will be crucial in the coming months as he aims to impress both club and country.
Jones’ end-of-season rating stands at 6, reflecting a year of unfulfilled promise but significant potential. His journey this season serves as a reminder of the fine margins in football and the resilience required to succeed at the highest level. With time on his side, Jones has the opportunity to turn his potential into consistent performances and secure his place in the future of both Liverpool and the national team.
