'There's criticism': Curtis Jones explains why he really chooses to hold onto the ball for so long

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Curtis Jones has been one of the heroes of Liverpool’s mini December revival.The midfielder racked up his 200th appearance for the Reds on Saturday, completing a third straight 90 minutes during the 2-0 win over Brighton.Arne Slot’s new diamond midfield formation appears to suit Jones down to the ground, giving him licence to get on the ball as much as possible.Join our newsletter for news & smart analysis. Will he fulfil his talent at Liverpool? 👇 Join the debate; share your insight.

Use the comment button on the bottom left to have your say Although the 24-year-old is a silky operator in possession, he has faced criticism throughout his Liverpool career for not knowing the best time to release a pass.Now in a position which allows him a little more freedom in that respect, Jones has answered the burning question of why he loves to hold onto the ball for so long.Curtis Jones responds to Liverpool criticsReaching 200 senior appearances after coming through the Liverpool academy is a big achievement for Jones.Still, there remains a feeling that he can do so much more for the Reds, starting with knowing when to hold the ball and when to let it go.Photo by Marco Canoniero/LightRocket via Getty ImagesREAD MORE: Curtis Jones reveals just how much Steven Gerrard personally helped him reach 200 games for LiverpoolSpeaking to LFCTV after Saturday’s win, however, Jones suggested that he will not be changing the way he plays and offered an explanation for why he sometimes appears to be hogging possession.“I’m just one of them who just loves to play, I just enjoy having the ball at my feet,” said the Scouser. “I’ve obviously heard that there’s criticism at times that I don’t move the ball quick enough and that’s just because I’m comfortable on the ball.

I don’t want to be in a rush and then I give a lad a ball who’s not as comfortable as me on the ball and then he’s in a little bit of a challenge and gets the blame. Use the comment button on the bottom left to have your say Does Jones’ explanation stand up to scrutiny?It is fine that Jones loves the ball, and it is part of what makes him such an intriguing player.