In the 23rd minute of England’s UEFA Nations League match against Greece, Curtis Jones exhibited a moment of pure composure and class. Surrounded by four Greek players, the Liverpool midfielder calmly shimmied past a challenge before playing a slick one-two with his center-back to bypass the press and launch a counterattack. It was a sequence that encapsulated why Jones is now seen as a potential cornerstone for both club and country.
From Merseyside to the World Stage
Born and bred in Liverpool, the 23-year-old Curtis Jones has taken a patient path to the top. He began his footballing journey with local youth club Mossley Hill, where his dedication and talent quickly stood out. As Mossley Hill Chairman Rob Wells recalls:
“Curtis was a quiet kid, very dedicated to football with his training and attitude. He never missed a session and always wanted to be a footballer. He was a good little player, which he obviously showed for England against Greece.
Rob Wells, Mossley Hill FC Chairman
Jones joined Liverpool’s academy at the under-9 level and progressed through the ranks. But it wasn’t always a smooth ascent. Injuries and competition for places meant he had to bide his time for first-team opportunities.
Patience and Perseverance Pay Off
That patience and perseverance is now paying dividends. Under Liverpool manager Arne Slot’s possession-oriented tactical setup, Jones’ technical skills, vision, and versatility make him a valuable asset. He’s featured in a variety of midfield roles this season, starting 6 of the last 8 games in all competitions.
His impact was evident in a man-of-the-match display against Chelsea and a superb cameo versus Brighton, where his assist led to the winning Mohamed Salah goal. As Jones himself noted:
“This is the happiest I have been. In terms of a style of play, [Slot’s system] suits us and the lads we have. It is a clear plan.”
Curtis Jones on playing under Arne Slot
A Maturing Talent
Slot credits Jones’ upturn in form to his growing maturity, both on and off the pitch. The midfielder became a father in October, an event Slot believes has spurred his development:
“With Curtis, you never know if [fatherhood] plays a part or not, but since the moment he became a father he started putting in great performances.”
Arne Slot on Curtis Jones’ development
That maturation was evident in his accomplished England debut against Greece. In addition to his influential midfield display, Jones netted the final goal in the 3-0 win with a cheeky backheel finish – a memorable way to cap his first appearance for the Three Lions.
The Future is Bright
With his stock rising, Jones looks poised to play an integral role for both Liverpool and England in the months and years ahead. His creativity, technique, and growing tactical awareness make him an exciting prospect in the heart of midfield.
If he continues on his current trajectory, Curtis Jones could soon establish himself as one of the Premier League’s most dynamic midfielders and a mainstay in the England setup. From Merseyside to the world stage, this local lad’s compelling rise is one to watch closely.
