Curtis Jones made a significant impact in Liverpool’s 5-1 Carabao Cup win over West Ham, especially after a key positional change in the second half.
Jones was one of nine players brought into the starting lineup for the third-round clash at Anfield. Unsurprisingly, Liverpool struggled to find their rhythm in the first half. After Diogo Jota equalized following Jarell Quansah’s own goal, both teams went into halftime with the score level at 1-1. However, the second half saw a dramatic shift in Liverpool’s performance, as they scored four unanswered goals.
A crucial moment came when Jones provided a brilliant assist for Jota’s second goal of the night. In an interview with LFCTV after the match, Jones explained that at halftime, he had informed head coach Arne Slot that the team was lacking space in midfield.
“In the first half, there was no room for us in the midfield,” Jones said. “But in the second half, the game opened up. We had more space to play through the lines, and that’s where the goals came from.”
This shift in momentum coincided with a change in Jones’ role on the field. Slot brought in Wataru Endo to reinforce the midfield, allowing Jones to push higher up the pitch.
“I played as a No. 8 in the first half, but in the second half, I was moved to a No. 10 position,” Jones explained. “That role suits me better; I feel more comfortable and freer around the box. I had several shots, though I didn’t score, but the goals will come eventually.”
Jones laughed while discussing his assist: “I almost got caught on the ball, but I managed to slip it through to Jota, and I knew he was going to score. I had a smile on my face before the ball even went through the keeper’s legs.”
The 22-year-old has endured a tough start to the season, having picked up a muscle injury in training that delayed his return. After limited appearances against Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth, he finally earned his first start of the campaign against West Ham.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Jones reflected on his early-season struggles but expressed optimism moving forward. “It’s been difficult with the injury, but I’m back now and enjoying playing with a smile on my face,” he said.
With key midfielders like Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch, and Dominik Szoboszlai featuring heavily in Slot’s plans, Jones’ return to fitness is a welcome boost for the team. As Liverpool navigates a congested fixture list, Jones will likely see regular rotation into the starting XI. Based on his performance against West Ham, he’s more than ready to contribute.
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