Jurgen Klopp has jokingly apologized to Liverpool star Curtis Jones for not giving him enough time on the pitch. This after Jones beat Fulham 2-1. Manchester United face Marco Silva’s side in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg at Anfield. The home fans were shocked when Willian scored the first goal against Fulham, but Liverpool turned things around in the second half and now look forward to the second leg.
Cody Gakpo scored the winner, but the star of the show was Jones. His performance could help cement his position as a regular starter. A graduate of the Reds academy, Jones has been a member of the first team for several years. However, he is sometimes left out of big matches and starts in smaller teams or smaller competitions. Jones has only appeared in seven Premier League games this season.After the game, Jones said more time on the field would help him improve.
He also said that he is trying to maintain his performance level. Klopp seemed to agree with Jones and said he should use him more often. “Curtis is very important to us and he knows it,” the Liverpool manager explained. “I happened to interview him and all he said was, ‘I need more playing time.’ I like this! I feel sorry for Curtis for not giving him more playing time sooner.”He’s done great things.
He looked like the strongest player on the entire field. He got hit and I think his leg died. He fell, but got back up moments later and scored. “A great footballer, very, very good. He’s always been like that, but with these skills, now he’s there for me, for everything. Thank God, he always does.” It’s very cool. He’s made great strides defensively, which gives him a better feel for the game. “He has a natural confidence so he’s a joy to be around, which is great.”Liverpool went into the second leg at Craven Cottage less than two weeks later with a one-goal lead. Klopp’s focus will now turn to Bournemouth on January 21 as Liverpool look to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League. “
