‘Big influence’: Barry Lewtas praises Liverpool starlet Curtis Jones

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Liverpool U18 manager Barry Lewtas has hailed the “big influence” of teenager Curtis Jones, the club’s official website reports.

Jones made the step up from the U18 team to the U23 team but Lewtas still uses him in the UEFA Youth League. Liverpool U19s face Genk in the UEFA Youth League today and Lewtas knows that Jones will play a key role.

The 18-year-old midfielder has been in fine form all season for the U19s, U23s and even the first-team. Jones was handed his senior debut by Jurgen Klopp against MK Dons in the cup. And he did not disappoint – earning the man of the match award. Lewtas believes he is set for big things.

Lewtas on Jones

Lewtas told liverpoolfc.com: “He is a big influence in the dressing room, a positive one. I thought it was right to give him the armband. The goal he got for us against Salzburg came at a good time for us and that was probably the difference in that game as well because we were extremely clinical.

“Scoring goals from midfield is something Curtis wants to add to his game, which he is doing. I am really pleased for him.”

TBR’s view

It is clear that Klopp rates Jones very highly. He has included the teenager in his first-team plans throughout pre-season and he has given him the chance to train with the senior squad this term.

Jones’ high-level performances were rewarded with a first-team chance. He is taking everything in his stride and he is still very young. It looks like the local lad could have a big future at Anfield.