Steven Gerrard heaps praise on Curtis Jones – as Liverpool icon insists the midfielder can become the ‘Scouse heartbeat’ of Arne Slot’s side
- Steven Gerrard placed his expectations on young Liverpool star Curtis Jones
- Al-Ettifaq’s manager reminisced about Jones’ impressive reputation at the academy
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Steven Gerrard has doubled expectations on Curtis Jones after the 23-year-old scored on his England debut against Greece on November 14.
The Liverpool legend hailed Jones’ development and stated that he envisaged him becoming the Scouse heartbeat of Arne Slot’s team.
After making his debut under Jurgen Klopp in September 2019, it wasn’t until last year that the midfielder made his first big performance step.
The 2023/24 season saw Jones break into Liverpool’s starting XI and earn more consistent minutes. In addition, he received his first call-up as part of the England preliminary squad for EURO 2024.
Despite missing out on selection for Gareth Southgate’s final 26-man squad, Jones picked up where he left off last season and battled Dominik Szoboszlai for Liverpool’s starting spot in tenth.
Now Gerrard has revealed his excitement at Jones’ progression, arguing that the Merseyside native could make a similar move under Slot as 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 in a 3-0 Nations League win over Greece last week
Gerrard urged Slot to help the 23-year-old develop, similar to how Rafael Benitez did with him
“I knew all along that with the right guidance and support he could become the Scouse heartbeat of the team,” Gerrard said. The times. “And I think he’s ready now to be that heartbeat.”
Gerrard reminisced on Jones’ development in Liverpool’s academy, stating that he never doubted his talent.
Liverpool’s third-biggest performer shed his wisdom and stressed that consistent hard work is often a major stumbling block for young stars.
“He was a typical young boy coming through. Very technically gifted, very skilled, tight control. He could run, he still had some growing to do,” Gerrard continued.
‘The most important thing for me with all children of that age is: do they have that hunger and that drive? Are they willing to make sacrifices to be consistent?’
The Al-Ettifaq manager further argued that Slot should nurture Jones’ growth, similar to how Benitez did with him.
‘Curtis still has a lot to learn and develop. I’m very excited to see how Arne Slot can take him to the next level. He’s still young,’ said Gerrard.
‘Rafa [Benítez] had to grab me to take me to another level, and the exciting thing for me looking in is that Arne seems like the guy who can really get Curtis to the next level.
“If he can get him there, we have a top international player on our hands.”