In what was a comprehensively better performance against Brentford compared to the dour, goalless stalemate with Arsenal in the Carabao Cup, there were plenty of positives for Liverpool fans and Jurgen Klopp to pick from post-match.
For many a supporter on Twitter, that one positive was Curtis Jones’ full 90 minutes against the Bees, with the midfielder enjoying a solid performance alongside Fabinho and skipper Jordan Henderson as the midfield dominated for much of the tie.
Having been cruelly robbed of minutes by an unfortunate eye injury for several weeks, it’s an ideal option to have back in the squad with a mixture of injuries and AFCON commitments (Naby Keita) leaving us somewhat depleted in the middle of the park.
At only 20 years of age, it can be easy for some to forget that the Academy graduate is miles from hitting the peak of his powers in the famous red shirt.
There are kinks, as one might expect, to his game that will undoubtedly be ironed out as he goes along but on the whole we have a very promising midfielder in the No.17 who could be part of the furniture at Anfield for at least a decade.
You can catch some of the fan reaction below:
Thought Curtis was very good today. He’s 21 very soon and is still developing and finding his best position but he was always a threat today. Love to see a local lad given chances. 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/ZgnafprEXR
— Mick Moran (@Mick_Moran_) January 16, 2022
Curtis Jones appreciation tweet. 👏🏻
Fantastic performance. Needs to start more in midfield. pic.twitter.com/UOtN40sCy3
— Samuel (@SamueILFC) January 16, 2022
A commanding win over a tricky Brentford side. Curtis had a solid game. Ox with a much needed goal to kill of the game. Trent & Robbo looked themselves. How unselfish can Firmino be? Jota unfortunate while Taki gets birthday goal. 3 points & clean sheet. #LFC #YNWA pic.twitter.com/II9ih5ebqk
— FantasticFirmino9🤙🏻😉🫵🏻 (@MPBFirmino9) January 16, 2022
Curtis technically is class, ball sticks to him. Just needs to pick out balls faster and be more decisive. Don’t let cf comps or anyone tell you otherwise. Just give him time
— Eden (@theKloppEnd_) January 16, 2022