Jurgen Klopp is being forced to consider playing a trump card this season amidst an injury crisis across his backline. Following on from Virgil van Dijk’s ACL surgery, the Dutchman can be expected to be out for most of, if not all of the season.
Joel Matip is also sidelined and stand-in defender Fabinho has picked up an injury as well. This leaves just Joe Gomez to man the fort as Klopp’s only senior centre-back. The German opted to deploy Nathaniel Phillips against West Ham, and 19-year-old Rhys Williams filled in for Fabinho against Midtjylland.
With options stretched dangerously thin, the manager is thinking outside the box for how he can solve his nightmare situation. After admitting he would consider playing Jordan Henderson across the backline, Klopp could also be making room for Curtis Jones in the midfield.
A big chance for Jones
Whilst Liverpool may not see an academy success story like Trent Alexander-Arnold’s again, fellow young Scouser Jones isn’t far behind. The attack-minded midfielder has seriously impressed following his breakthrough into the senior team and this injury dilemma could find a way to give him more game time.
The 19-year-old started against the Hammers, making his third Premier League appearance of the season and 20th senior appearance overall (via Transfermarkt).
Anfield legend Jamie Carragher has lauded the teen for his efforts so far. Speaking to Sky Sports in 2018, the ex-defender highlighted how much Jones impressed Steven Gerrard whilst he was coaching the Liverpool youth side (via Planet Football).
Similarly, Stephen Warnock recently waxed lyrical on BBC Radio 5 Live about how “outstanding” of a player Jones has been (via HITC).
If Henderson shifts into centre-back and Fabinho eventually returns to his usual spot as No.6, it leaves a space wide open for Jones to fill. Georginio Wijnaldum will likely be one of the first names on the team sheet this season, but he needs support. And with both Naby Keita and Thiago ruled out alongside the elusive Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, now could be the time for the Merseyside local to shine for his boyhood club.
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