Liverpool will be looking to maintain their impressive form when they face Arsenal away from home on Sunday in the Premier League.
The Reds have won seven of their eight league games, but this is arguably their biggest challenge so far.
Arne Slot’s side faced a big test against Chelsea last week, and they passed with flying colours. But this is an even bigger test as Arsenal are seen as a potential title challenger.
Mikel Arteta’s side has made a strong start to the season, and this weekend’s game at the Emirates Stadium is expected to be a cracking one.
Alan Shearer says that he won’t be surprised if Liverpool pass this test, and adds that Slot must start with Curtis Jones in midfield.
What Alan Shearer has said about Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones
The 23-year-old started against Chelsea in place of Alexis MacAllister and he delivered a stellar performance, reminding everyone of his vast potential.
He started from the bench in midweek, which means he should be fully ready for this titanic Premier League clash.
Slot’s decision to pick his best midfield combination presents a big selection dilemma, but Shearer suggests that the Dutchman cannot simply drop Jones from the starting line-up.
Shearer said to The Metro: “I’d be shocked if Curtis Jones wasn’t the first name on the team sheet.
“It would be difficult to understand if you put in the performance like he did last week, get man of the match and the winner, to be then left out the following week. I’d be amazed if he wasn’t in the XI.
“I’m going to sit on the fence here though and say it’ll be a score draw in a fantastic game at the Emirates.”
Curtis Jones must start v Arsenal
Slot will definitely welcome such selection headaches as it means he now has more quality options. Jones is a better fit for this game than Dominik Szoboszlai, who has been equally brilliant this season.
Jones is very tidy with his passing, and his movement off the ball is terrific. Against the Gunners, you need players who can maintain ball possession, and Jones is definitely capable of doing that.
Liverpool are not getting carried away with talks of a title challenge at the moment. They are simply focused on winning games, and if they secure three points against the Gunners, it would be a massive lift for the entire team.
