Klopp’s Confidence in Jones’ Ability Shines Through
Jurgen Klopp, the Liverpool manager, has been vocal about Curtis Jones’ growth as a player, and now he wants to immortalize that sentiment in writing. The young midfielder was tasked with playing at right-back against Burnley due to injury absences, and Klopp couldn’t be prouder.
Jones has been a reliable option for Klopp this season, having played the 12th-most minutes of any player, primarily in midfield. However, injuries have forced him to adapt and play in defense and attack on a few occasions.
With no alternative right-back available against Burnley, it was the 23-year-old Jones who stepped up to fill Trent Alexander-Arnold’s shoes. Klopp’s praise earlier this year sets the stage for Jones’ performance. In January, Klopp proclaimed, “If Curtis Jones can learn defending, everybody can learn defending!” It seems that Jones took those words to heart as he put on an impressive display in the second half against Burnley.
Now, Klopp wants to memorialize Jones’ achievement by displaying his reference at the Liverpool academy – the place where it all began for the Toxteth native. “Now, definitely, on the wall in the academy, we will draw (write) ‘If Curtis Jones can learn defending, anyone can learn defending’,” Klopp revealed during an interview with NBC Sports. He continued to praise Jones, stating that he did incredibly well in his new role.
Klopp’s high regard for Jones and his development since making his debut in 2019 is evident. With 124 games under his belt, Jones has become a key player in Liverpool’s midfield. Moving him into defense against Burnley was a strategic decision. Klopp explained, “We told Curtis what he had to do and we changed formation slightly, trying to make it as simple as possible for him.” It was not technically Jones’ first time playing right-back, having done so against Leicester City in the League Cup this season. However, the simplification of his role was necessary to ensure his success.
If Burnley had any doubts about Jones’ ability to excel in defense, they were swiftly proven wrong. The young midfielder showcased his versatility and adaptability, leaving no room for criticism. Jones’ transition from the academy to the first team has been a memorable one, and Klopp’s confidence in him is unwavering.