Liverpool have blooded some world class academy players over the years. Michael Owen came through the ranks to win the Ballon d’Or, Steven Gerrard emerged to become one of the game’s greatest ever midfielders. Trent Alexander-Arnold has revolutionised the right back role. One of our latest youngsters to break through is getting some more game time in recent weeks – Curtis Jones needs to play with more confidence when he starts.
Curtis Jones at Liverpool
Scouser Curtis Jones has been with Liverpool since U9 level.
The local lad has risen through the ranks, impressing at every level – kicking on under Steven Gerrard in the U18s.
Jones’ progression into the first team was never in doubt, last season he proved too good for academy football, picking up the Premier League 2 Player of the Season award.
Now a firm member of the senior squad and donning Steven Gerrard’s old squad number, 17, much is expected of the 19-year-old – particularly given his stunning winner against Everton in the FA Cup.
Jones recent stars
We have seen Curtis Jones given much more game time by Jürgen Klopp recently.
The Scouser started against Ajax in Amsterdam and against West Ham at Anfield.
In both games we saw brief flashes of what the youngster has to offer but he is still undeniably a raw talent, rough around the edges.
Curtis Jones confidence
What we need to see more of from Curtis Jones is confidence.
Whenever he picks the ball up and drives with it he makes things happen. We need him in those more advanced positions playing quick passes, ghosting past players.
We have seen this from him on occasion but too often he is found taking too many touches and stagnating the play.
He is a player with unbelievable potential but he needs to have the confidence to realise that ability. We’ve no doubt that he’ll come good in the years to come, Jürgen Klopp is the best man possible for the job of helping the Scouser develop.