Slot confirms Reds will be without one midfielder against Burnley
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Arne Slot has confirmed that Curtis Jones will not feature in Liverpool's upcoming match against Burnley due to a new injury, disrupting plans that had seen the midfielder expected to start. This announcement came shortly before the fixture, impacting Liverpool's midfield options for the game.
Since Arne Slot’s arrival at Anfield, Curtis Jones has been thriving, evolving into a key figure in Liverpool’s midfield setup. Following a standout performance in Liverpool's 2-1 victory over Chelsea, where Jones won a penalty for Mo Salah and scored the winning goal himself, his progress has drawn widespread praise. Former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor admitted he was previously critical of Jones but acknowledged that under Slot's guidance, Jones has significantly improved, making smart attacking runs and displaying greater confidence and impact on the pitch.
Despite this upswing in form, Jones has recently faced fitness setbacks. Slot revealed that Jones withdrew from a previous match due to not feeling fully recovered after training, a concern that has continued with the latest injury ruling him out of the Burnley match. This comes at a time when Liverpool are adapting to a new style under Slot, characterized by pressing and attacking football that demands industrious and active central midfielders, roles well-suited to Jones’s attributes.
The absence of Jones against Burnley is a setback for Liverpool, but Slot’s strategic approach emphasizes resilience and depth, having successfully managed tactical changes in his first season. Jones’s injury highlights the challenges of maintaining form and fitness amid the rigors of Premier League competition. Liverpool remain optimistic about his return and ongoing development as a crucial component of their lineup.
PP