In a display of poise and promise, Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones made his long-awaited England debut in a 3-0 victory over Greece on Thursday. The 23-year-old not only scored an audacious backheel goal but also demonstrated the composure and control that England has often lacked in midfield.
A Midfield Solution Emerges
England’s midfield woes have been well-documented, with former manager Gareth Southgate lamenting the absence of a player in the mold of Luka Modric or Toni Kroos. However, Jones’ performance against Greece suggests that England may have found a homegrown solution to their midfield puzzle.
Operating alongside Conor Gallagher in a 4-2-3-1 formation, Jones was the epitome of composure. He completed a staggering 95.6% of his passes and consistently made himself available to receive the ball, even under pressure from Greek defenders.
“Curtis can alternate between advanced and deep roles,” interim manager Lee Carsley noted after the match, highlighting the youngster’s versatility.
– Lee Carsley, England interim manager
Flourishing Under Arne Slot at Liverpool
Jones’ England debut comes on the heels of his most productive season yet for Liverpool. Under new manager Arne Slot, the Reds have placed a greater emphasis on midfield play, and Jones has thrived in this system. His winning goal against Chelsea last month was a testament to his growing influence at Anfield.
A Missed Opportunity at Euro 2024
Despite his club form, Jones was a notable omission from Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad. England’s midfield struggled in the tournament, particularly in their final defeat to Spain, prompting many to wonder if Jones could have made a difference had he been selected.
Tuchel’s Midfield Dilemma
As incoming England manager Thomas Tuchel prepares to take the reins, he will undoubtedly be considering his midfield options. While Declan Rice remains a mainstay, Jones’ emergence provides Tuchel with a tantalizing alternative, one who can progress the ball smoothly and unlock defenses with his passing range.
“Jones played England out of trouble and himself in contention,” a source close to the England setup revealed, suggesting that the Liverpool man has made a strong case for future inclusion.
– Anonymous England source
The Road Ahead
While it’s still early days, Jones’ England debut was undeniably impressive. His composure, vision, and technical ability were on full display against Greece, providing a glimpse of the midfield dynamism that England has often lacked.
As Tuchel looks to build on the foundations laid by Carsley, he will no doubt be monitoring Jones’ progress closely. If the Liverpool midfielder can maintain his current trajectory, he may well become a key figure in England’s midfield for years to come.
For now, though, Jones can bask in the glow of a debut well-played. His backheel goal and overall performance have set tongues wagging, and England fans will be eager to see more of the young midfielder in the coming months.
With a European Championship on home soil looming in 2028, Jones has the potential to be England’s midfield maestro, the player who can unlock the nation’s full attacking potential. If he can seize this opportunity, he may just write himself into England folklore.
