Arne Slot: Curtis Jones not afraid to be played out of position for Liverpool

Naturally a midfielder, Jones has been deployed in defence for the past two matches and has impressed, helping Liverpool to consecutive wins over Everton and Crystal Palace.

Those victories have propelled the club into fourth place in the Premier League, putting them on the brink of securing UEFA Champions League qualification.

Slot's decision has been influenced by ongoing issues in the right-back position. Conor Bradley is ruled out with a long-term knee injury, while Jeremie Frimpong and Joe Gomez have both struggled with fitness, leaving limited options available.

A win at Old Trafford would see Liverpool move above Manchester United into third place, further strengthening their late-season surge.

Slot praised Jones' impact and adaptability, stressing that the 23-year-old has embraced the challenge.

"Very well. Not perfect, which is completely normal, but very well, especially if you take into account - that's why it makes complete sense that it's not perfect, although who is perfect in whichever position? - he hardly has played in that position throughout his career," Slot said when asked about Jones' recent form.

"That he does it the way he does is a big compliment, because I think he played twice a good game; against Palace, even better than against Everton, defensively I mean then mainly, which makes sense because usually you improve by playing more in a certain position, getting more used to the players around you and to your position.

"What we always know from him is that he shows great personality in every position he plays. He's never afraid to play, never afraid to get the ball, never scared to take a bit of risk, which is something he maybe has to adjust a little bit because in midfield it's a bit different than playing in the last line, taking risk.

"But it's also one of his qualities that he's able to bring himself out of very difficult positions, which could come across as taking risk, but usually the ball is in safe hands when he has it because he's very good and comfortable on the ball." 

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