Curtis Jones had a positive season in 2023/24, but it ultimately petered out due to injuries. Despite this setback, Jones showcased his growth and maturity, establishing himself as a key figure in Liverpool’s midfield. He started four of the first seven Premier League games and demonstrated his reliability on the ball and tactical intelligence.
However, a harsh red card against Tottenham disrupted Jones’ rhythm and led to a two-month absence from the league starting lineup. Although he performed well when he was on the pitch, his lack of consistent fitness limited his playing time. By the end of the season, Jones had only made 14 Premier League starts, highlighting the impact of his injuries.
Nevertheless, Jones played an important role in Liverpool’s midfield. He may not have received as much attention as other players like Alexis Mac Allister or Wataru Endo, but his presence brought balance to the team. In fact, his playing style drew comparisons to Gini Wijnaldum, a former unsung hero for Liverpool. Jones showcased an impressive pass completion rate of 91.5%, on par with Virgil van Dijk, demonstrating his ability to retain possession in tight spaces and contribute both defensively and offensively.
Unfortunately, injuries have been a recurring issue for Jones. The likes of Thiago, Naby Keita, and Adam Lallana serve as cautionary tales of how injuries can hinder players’ careers. Jones must overcome this obstacle if he wants to reach his full potential. While he can find solace in the fact that even Steven Gerrard faced injury problems early in his career, Jones must now navigate this crucial phase in his development as he transitions from being a young player to a more established figure.
Looking ahead, it will be interesting to see how Arne Slot utilizes Jones in the midfield, considering Liverpool’s depth in that area. Opinions on Jones’ ceiling as a footballer may vary, but if he can become an excellent squad player who consistently starts for the team over the next decade, he will have a successful career. Ultimately, it is his ability to stay fit and avoid injuries that will determine his trajectory.
Jones’ best moment of the season was his great solo effort against West Ham in the League Cup, showcasing his individual brilliance. On the other hand, his worst moment was the harsh red card he received against Tottenham, which disrupted his progress. Moving forward, Jones is expected to continue as an excellent squad player for Liverpool next season.