Curtis Jones has always been viewed as a midfielder. That’s where he came through in the academy. That’s where he sees himself. That’s where most of us expect him to play.
But here’s the question that’s starting to grow louder…
Is he actually better at right-back?
The Midfield Debate
In midfield, Jones has clear strengths. He’s comfortable on the ball, strong physically, and can glide past players when confident. On his day, he looks calm and composed.
But the criticism isn’t unfair either.
He can drift in and out of games.
He sometimes dwells too long in possession.
He can miss quicker forward passes when the tempo demands it.
And in crucial moments, he hasn’t always stamped his authority on matches.
At Liverpool’s level, especially in a high-tempo system, those details matter.
When you’re competing for places against high-energy, progressive midfielders, you can’t afford to slow the game down too often.
The Right-Back Experiment
Now this is where it gets interesting.
When Jones has filled in at right-back, he’s looked… solid.
Not spectacular. Not flashy. But controlled.
Why?
Because the position naturally gives him more time to assess what’s in front of him. He can see the play develop. He can size up an attacking winger. His physical strength becomes an asset in one-on-one duels.
And going forward, he’s capable of making clever, underlapping runs and tactical passes into midfield areas.
At full-back, his tendency to dwell on the ball isn’t as exposed. In midfield, one extra touch can cost you. Out wide, that extra second often exists.
That changes everything.
A Missed Opportunity?
Some fans believe Arne Slot hasn’t used him enough at right-back — especially when Liverpool have been short in that area.
Every time he’s been trusted there, he hasn’t looked out of place.
So the real question becomes:
If he’s not quite first-choice midfield material at Liverpool right now… could he reinvent himself as a serious right-sided defensive option?
My Take
I still believe Curtis Jones is a midfielder at heart. But football evolves.
If his pathway into Liverpool’s strongest XI is blocked centrally, adapting could extend his Anfield career significantly.
Not every player has to follow a straight line.
Maybe the future of Curtis Jones at Liverpool isn’t about competing in midfield.
Maybe it’s about redefining his role entirely.
And if that’s the case, this summer could be less about leaving — and more about adapting.
Leave your comments, I’d love to hear your opinion.
Jamie (The Kopite View)