In an era when versatility is often touted but rarely embraced with genuine humility, Curtis Jones reminded everyone what it means to play for the badge. Handed an unfamiliar role at right-back for Liverpool’s hard-fought 1-0 win over Everton, the 23-year-old delivered more than just defensive cover — he embodied the collective spirit that has kept Arne Slot’s side top of the Premier League.
With Jarell Quansah dropping out, Slot reshuffled his deck and deployed Jones in defence. It was a surprise move, but one that ultimately paid dividends, as Diogo Jota’s sublime second-half strike proved enough to sink Everton in yet another Merseyside derby settled by fine margins.
“Yeah, of course it is [a big win],” Jones told Liverpoolfc.com post-match. “We have come back after the break and have got an important run. We have started with the first game with three points and a clean sheet, so it was a perfect start.”
Right-back Duties Accepted with Maturity
Jones, ever the team player, downplayed any fuss over his positional switch. “It was just one of those things I say all the time – at the end of the day, I’m a footballer,” he said, revealing a mindset that prioritises adaptability over ego.
The midfielder admitted he still harbours ambitions to play centrally: “Of course I want to play eight or 10 – or false nine or off the left or anything like that – [but] I just want to go and play and help the team as much as I can.”
Slot’s decision to deploy Jones wide right wasn’t simply born of necessity — it was a show of trust in the Scouser’s intelligence and tactical discipline. “They were going long all the time so I was finding myself at the back a lot, at the back post, and I was clearing things, I was stopping shots and crosses,” Jones explained. “That’s part of the game and part of a right-back as well. He has trusted me in there so I have to do a job.”
Jota steps up when it counts
The decisive moment came courtesy of Diogo Jota, who reminded everyone why he’s considered one of Liverpool’s most clinical forwards when fit. Drifting past three defenders with balletic grace, the Portuguese international rolled the ball past Jordan Pickford with a clever reverse finish.
It was his first goal since January, but the reaction from the Liverpool squad spoke volumes about his standing. “What a player Jota is,” said Jones. “And all the lads as well who come off the bench and help, and the lads who start. We’ve got a great team and whether you start or not, you just know it’s all about the team.”
Jones continued: “Jota has kind of had a run of games where he has not scored, but he works hard as well. That’s the trust we all have in him, that if he doesn’t score or doesn’t assist we know he will always run, he’ll always be there for the team and for a pass.”
Slot’s Rotation Shows Faith in Squad Unity
What this performance demonstrated above all was Slot’s growing influence. The Dutchman’s decisions are bold, often unpredictable, but always strategic. Whether it’s entrusting Curtis Jones to a defensive role in a derby or giving Jota a long-awaited start, there’s an understanding within the camp that everyone will get their chance — and everyone must take it.
Liverpool’s win over Everton may not have been the most dazzling display of the season, but it was one of the most telling. In Jones’ quiet excellence out of position and Jota’s return to form, there was a snapshot of what’s keeping this side ticking: discipline, togetherness, and the unshakable will to win.
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