Andy Hinchcliffe told Sky Sports during their live coverage of England U21’s win against Croatia on Wednesday that Liverpool midfielder, Curtis Jones, was ‘outstanding’ for his country.
Even though the England youngsters won the game, they were knocked out of the European Championships after finishing bottom of their group.
But, at one moment, when Liverpool’s academy product, Jones, put England 2-0 up, it seemed as though Aidy Boothroyd’s side were heading for an unlikely progression.
But then a stoppage-time strike broke England hearts as they are now heading for an early exit.
Former Premier League defender, Hinchcliffe, believes Jones was ‘outstanding’ after being handed his first start.
“Curtis Jones has been outstanding,” said Hinchcliffe. “It’s a wonderfully clean strike – once Jones strikes it, there is only one place it’s going to end up.
“But it’s a beauty of a strike from Jones. He was put into the team for his first start and has scored a priceless second goal for Aidy Boothroyd.”
Many will question why Jones didn’t start the first two matches, which England lost and looked abject in front of goal.
Jone has had a brilliant season in a Liverpool shirt this term, even though many have struggled around him.
But it was a little too late to start him during this decider because there was only so much he could do.
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