Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp praised midfielder Curtis Jones following his side’s 4-2 win over Newcastle United on Monday (January 1). Jones put the Reds ahead in the 74th minute and the score was 1-1. Mohamed Salah missed the spot early and scored a double (49′, 86′) and Cody Gakpo scored another (78′).
Jones recorded an impressive 91% passing accuracy. He had two assists and three shots on goal, completed both of his dribble attempts and won six of nine floor duels. Commenting on the 22-year-old’s performance, Klopp had the following to say after the game (via Liverpool World):”A special game. To be honest, Curtis’ standout game is high pressing and counter pressing.”We all know how good Curtis is. He’s very good technically, but he’s finding more and more direction off the dribble, getting out of situations, now pressing and counter-attacking. He defines the level. That’s basically how it should be. I am really happy. He protects every player in the game.”Jones has made 12 appearances this season, scoring 1 goal and 1 assist in 7 Premier League games. The win moves the Reds three points clear of second-placed Aston Villa. Klopp’s side next face Arsenal in the FA Cup third round on Sunday (January 7). Their next Premier League game is at Bournemouth on January 21.
