The Liverpool manager appeared to admit, following Wednesday’s 2-1 victory over Fulham at Anfield, that he hadn’t been making the most use of midfield star Curtis Jones.
Following Curtis Jones’ impressive performance in the 2-1 victory over Fulham, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has made a lighthearted apology to the midfielder for his lack of first-team playing time.
For the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final, the Reds welcomed Marco Silva’s team to Anfield. Willian’s goal put Fulham up early on, shocking the home crowd. But a dramatic comeback in the second half made sure Liverpool would head into the second leg with the upper hand.
Jones scored the equaliser, however Tosin Adarabioyo took a significant deflection before his long-range shot found the back of the net. Although Cody Gakpo scored the game’s winning goal, Jones was the game’s most impressive performer, increasing his prospects of being a fixture in the starting lineup.
The former Reds youth product has spent several years in and around the first team, but he is more frequently seen starting in lower-level events or coming off the bench for the biggest games. Jones has made just seven Premier League starts so far this season.
Following the match, he gave an explanation of how getting more playing time is benefiting him and how the emphasis right now is on keeping up the necessary level. His manager seemed to take the remarks well and even suggested that maybe he hadn’t exploited Jones to the fullest extent possible.
The Liverpool boss said, “Curtis is super, super, super important to us and he knows that.” ‘I need more game time,’ was the one remark that stood out when I happened to hear his interview.'” I adore that! I apologise to Curtis for not giving you more gaming time sooner.
“He has come a long way. He appeared to be the most physically fit player on the pitch. He was knocked down, what felt like a dead leg, but he got back up and scored a moment later.
“He was always a very, very talented football player. But thanks to these abilities, he is now regularly doing it for me, for him, for everyone. That is just amazing. He made significant progress in defensive areas, which improves his perception of the game.
“It is a joy to have the boy around because he has this natural scouse confidence and it is really cool.”
With a one-goal advantage into the second leg at Craven Cottage in less than two weeks, Liverpool will be looking to increase their lead at the top of the Premier League. However, for the time being, Klopp’s attention will be solely focused on Saturday’s trip to Bournemouth.
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