Graeme Souness predicts Curtis Jones will be a major part in Liverpool's future after the young midfielder inspired the Reds to a 2-0 victory at Sheffield United.
Jones crashed in the Merseysiders' opener at Bramall Lane just after half-time to send the Reds on their way to a comfortable win, with Blades defender Kean Bryan scoring an own goal from Roberto Firmino's shot later in the second period.
Jones could have scored more in the first-half were it not for the heroics of Sheffield United shot stopper Aaron Ramsdale, but Souness recognised the 20-year-old's talent and potential in Jurgen Klopp's side.
The former Liverpool manager told Sky Sports: 'When you watch him (Jones) play, you realise he’s full of technique. He can dribble in tight areas and he puts a shift in.
'(He's) 20 years old, he has a chance of being a real player for this club. The fact he’s a scouser is a real bonus. He could have a big part to play in Liverpool’s future.'
The victory at Bramall Lane moved Klopp's Reds two points behind fourth-placed West Ham United, with last year's Premier League champions facing a mouth-watering clash at home to fifth-placed Chelsea on Thursday night.
Given his performance at Bramall Lane on Sunday night, Jones is likely to feature in the six-pointer for the Champions League spots.
‘I’ve always said I’m a player who likes to assist and score goals, the time is right now,’ Jones told Sky Sports after the game. ‘All in all, it was a good team performance. We get three points and we go again… today was a good example of putting it all together.’
Souness claims that Jones is one of several young English midfielders who can be Premier League stars in the coming years, though indicated which circumstances could stop the Liverpool youngster becoming a major star.
The 20-year-old is competing alongside Chelsea's Mason Mount, Manchester City's Phil Foden and Aston Villa's Jack Grealish in terms of youngsters looking to make their mark in England's top-flight.
Souness continued: 'He’s got the ability, athleticism and looks to have the attitude.
'He’s one of several young English midfield players who have got a chance of being a big player in the Premier League as long as he keeps a head on his shoulders.
'Two things stop him from being a good player - a big head or an injury.
Source: m.allfootballapp.com