- Steven Gerrard expressed his expectations about young Liverpool star Curtis Jones
- Al-Ettifaq coach recalled Jones’ impressive reputation in the academy
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Steven Gerrard has backed Curtis Jones as a star for club and country for years to come after the 23-year-old scored on his England debut against Greece last week.
The Liverpool legend applauded Jones’ development and said he envisions him becoming the Scouse heart of Arne Slot’s side.
After making his debut under Jurgen Klopp in September 2019, it was not until last year that the midfielder took his first big step forward in his performance.
In the 2023-24 campaign, Jones broke into Liverpool’s starting lineup and earned more consistent minutes. In addition, he received his first call-up as part of England’s preliminary squad for Euro 2024.
Despite missing the cut for Gareth Southgate’s latest 26-man squad, Jones has picked up right where he left off last season, battling Dominik Szoboszlai for Liverpool’s starting number 10 spot.
Now, Gerrard has revealed his enthusiasm for Jones’ progression path, arguing that the Merseyside native could take a similar step with Slot as he did when Rafael Benitez joined Liverpool.
Steven Gerrard believes Curtis Jones could become a Liverpool icon under Arne Slot
Jones scored on his senior England debut last week in the 3-0 Nations League win over Greece.
Gerrard urged Slot to help the 23-year-old develop, similar to what Rafael Benitez did with him.
“I have always known that, with the right guidance and support, he can become the Scouse heart of the team,” Gerrard said. The times. “And I think now he’s ready to be that heartbeat.”
Gerrard recalled Jones’ development in Liverpool’s academy and said he never doubted his talent.
Wisdom aside, Liverpool’s third-most featured player insisted that consistent hard work is often a big obstacle for young stars.
“He was the typical young kid who was getting ahead. Very technically gifted, very skilled, strict control. “He could run, he still had a little bit of growth left,” Gerrard continued.
‘The key for me with all kids that age is do they have that hunger and that drive? Are they willing to make sacrifices to be consistent?
The Al-Ettifaq coach went on to argue that Slot must nurture Jones’ growth, similar to what Benitez did with him.
‘Curtis still has a lot to learn, a lot to evolve. I’m very excited to see how Arne Slot can take it to the next level. He’s still young,” Gerrard said.
“Rafa (Benitez) had to grab me to take me to another level, and the exciting thing for me is that Arne looks like the man who can really take Curtis to the next level.
“If he manages to get him there, we will have a top-level international player on our hands.”