Curtis Jones was included in Thomas Tuchel’s first starting lineup as England manager as the Three Lions recorded a 2-0 victory over Albania at Wembley.
The identity of the player who should fill the third midfield spot alongside Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham in England’s midfield has been up for debate for a few years now, and Liverpool star Jones did his chances of staying in the team against Latvia on Monday no harm.
Jones‘ close control and ball retention were typically good against Albania, and although his impact waned slightly after the break, he earned praise from plenty of members of the UK press who were in attendance for the game.
The Guardian handed Jones a 7 in its player ratings, writing: “On the ball a lot during the early stages and set the tone with some fierce pressing. Needed more finesse in final third.”
Jones received another 7 from The Telegraph, which said: “Down as a defensive-midfielder on the team sheet but often pushed further forward as Albania sat back and was part of England’s press. Good engine and looked very comfortable on the ball.”
Jones also received praise from the BBC, The i Paper and The London Evening Standard, although all three outlets handed him a six out of 10 in their player ratings due to his reduced influence during the second half.
The BBC said: “Just a third start for Jones but showed, in flashes, why he has been a key part of Liverpool’s midfield this season. Linked the play well and looked to get into the box when he could. A quiet second half before being replaced in the 74th minute.”
The i Paper said: “Retained his starting spot after excelling in the brief Lee Carsley era. Made a bright start with his customary driving runs forward but his influence waned as the game wore on.”
The London Evening Standard added of Jones: “Is desperate to make himself the go-to man next to Declan Rice, but has competition from plenty of others in that position. Some good passes, some lax ones. But first-rate movement off the ball.”
