Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones has attributed his recent fine form to new manager Arne Slot’s playing style after earning a spot in England’s squad for the upcoming Nations League matches.
The 23-year-old midfielder has flourished since Slot took charge at Anfield this summer, and he wasted no time citing the Dutchman’s influence as a key factor behind his current strong form.
“I feel that I’m at the point now where I’m enjoying it the most that I have. I say that in terms of style of play that suits me and the love that I’m getting from the coaches and the staff all around,” Jones said, reported by the Mirror.
“Arne and his staff have come in and the style of play and everything is changing – the way we go and press and stuff. I think it suits me more. As a fresh start, I’ll give it everything I can.
“I’m really enjoying it and the most important thing is that I’m playing with a smile on my face.”
Although Jones has been included in two prior England squads, he has yet to make his debut, a milestone he’s likely to achieve this week as England prepare to face Greece in Athens on Thursday, before squaring up against the Republic of Ireland at Wembley on Sunday.
Liverpool currently lead the Premier League with nine wins from their first 11 matches, sitting five points ahead of second-placed Manchester City. Jones, who has been instrumental in his team’s strong start, appears eager to carry his club form onto the international stage.
“I will approach the game trying to prove to everybody that I’m the player that they say I am, and the player that I’ve always been since I was a kid,” he added. “I think this call-up is huge.
“I’ve played Champions League games, Premier League games. It’s exactly the same there – stadiums are packed, they’re loud, intense games, quick games, important games.
“My approach is just exactly the same. I go there, try and be me. I just try to play free with a free mind, try not to overthink anything.
“We go there needing to win and hopefully I’ll get my first cap, and hopefully I can be part of an important win.”
Olaoluwa is a dedicated sports writer and passionate football enthusiast with two years of experience. Known for his keen analysis and commitment to the game, his work reflects a deep love for football, blending strategic insight with the emotional moments that make it a global passion. He is focused on honing his skills and consistently aims to inspire and engage readers through every article he writes.
