Arne Slot Confirms Plan for Curtis Jones After Liverpool Team News

In-Depth Analysis

### **[H2] In-Depth Analysis**

Liverpool faces an injury situation at right-back ahead of the crucial Merseyside derby against Everton, with regular choices Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joe Gomez sidelined, and backup Conor Bradley not yet at full match fitness. This has led manager Arne Slot to make a somewhat surprising tactical decision.

Slot has confirmed that midfielder Curtis Jones will fill the right-back slot. The manager explained the choice, stating, "That's one of the reasons why I chose Curtis at full-back," referencing the need to perform better with the ball compared to a previous tight derby match. This suggests Slot values Jones's composure and technical skill in possession, even in a defensive role.

This isn't entirely uncharted territory for the 24-year-old Scouser. Jones notably started at right-back, and captained the side, in a Carabao Cup match against Leicester in September 2023. His performance then drew praise from Jurgen Klopp, who called it "super special" and highlighted Jones's football intelligence. Statistics from that game support his capability: Jones completed 100% of his dribbles, achieved 96% pass accuracy, won three duels, and made two key passes, two interceptions, and a tackle (via Sofascore).

Further complicating team selection, goalkeeper Alisson Becker is unavailable after failing to clear concussion protocols following a late check. Caoimhin Kelleher, who has impressed this season, steps in. Slot acknowledged Kelleher's quality, remarking he is "maybe too good to be Ali’s backup."

The deployment of Jones at right-back is a significant decision for a high-stakes match like the Merseyside derby, testing both the player's adaptability and Slot's tactical flexibility under pressure.

Read source article

FAQ

Takeaways

• **Tactical Flexibility:** Expect to see Curtis Jones potentially adopting an inverted role from right-back, contributing to midfield play when Liverpool are in possession.
• **Defensive Test:** Jones's defensive capabilities will be tested in a high-pressure derby environment against Everton's wingers.
• **Goalkeeping Confidence:** While Alisson's absence is a blow, Kelleher has proven himself a capable replacement this season.
• **Injury Impact:** This lineup highlights the current strain on Liverpool's squad depth, particularly in defence.

Discussion

Do you think Curtis Jones will excel in the right-back role against Everton? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

*Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!*

Sources

Disclaimer

This article was compiled by Yanuki using publicly available data and trending information. The content may summarize or reference third-party sources that have not been independently verified. While we aim to provide timely and accurate insights, the information presented may be incomplete or outdated.

All content is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. Yanuki makes no representations or warranties regarding the reliability or completeness of the information.

This article may include links to external sources for further context. These links are provided for convenience only and do not imply endorsement.

Always do your own research (DYOR) before making any decisions based on the information presented.