It was a day to remember as Steven Gerrard’s U18s hit Middlesbrough for six in an outstanding team performance on St. Patrick’s Day at Kirkby. While the entire team dished out an eye-catching performance, Curtis Jones hogged the headlines and for all right reasons.
Curtis Jones scored two in the 6-0 rout of Middlesbrough, helping the Liverpool U18s bounce back from their heartbreaking midweek exit in the quarterfinals of the UEFA Youth League. Credits to all the goals scored by the academy kids but what stood out was Jones’ second goal.
Jones danced past two Boro defenders and curled delightfully past the goalkeeper with virtually the last kick of the game. Well, reminds you of someone? Jones’ 18th goal of the campaign triggered rasping celebrations with the midfielder being crowded by his teammates after a ‘Salah’ type strike.
Jones, a local lad, joined his boyhood club at the U9 level and has since impressed massively in every rank. Jones is a dynamic midfielder with quick feet, capable of dribbling and dancing past defenders with ease. He is versatile and can play in a number of midfield positions but his best can be seen when he is tasked with the box-to-box duty.
Gerrard is aware of the midfielder’s talent and is looking to build the U18 team around him. Such has been Jones’ meteoric rise since Gerrard took over that the youngster signed his first senior contract last month.
Delighted to see Jones signing his first professional contract, Gerrard told Liverpoolfc.com:
“It’s very special for Curtis and his family – and thoroughly deserved.”
“I’m really pleased and proud of Curtis this season, for his effort and commitment to the team cause and he has added big numbers to his game. We will probably see Curtis more with the U23s now, and he has earned that.
“In terms of the day, for him it’s very special. Let’s hope he goes from strength to strength now and he sees this as the beginning.”
Jones has been with Liverpool since U9 level and only debuted for the U18s last term. As Gerrard has said, Jones will be seen on a regular basis with the U23s and let’s hope the wonder kid builds on this impressive run and continues to progress for us.
For now, enjoy Jones’ stunning strike for the Liverpool U18s against Middlesbrough. Here is the video.
Liverpool U18s gem Curtis Jones scored a Mo Salah-esque goal in their 6-0 win over Middlesbrough on Saturday! Great finish @curtisjr_10! pic.twitter.com/9BJqRNgrXA
— The Redmen TV (@TheRedmenTV) March 20, 2018
