Danny Murphy has suggested to Stadium Astro that Liverpool are not keeping Georginio Wijnaldum because of Curtis Jones.
Jurgen Klopp confirmed Wijnaldum’s impending departure from Liverpool yesterday, after failing to agree terms over a new deal.
Wijnaldum has been a key player for the Reds over a number of years, but it has been decided that he won’t be staying next term.
And Murphy feels that Jones’s talents are the reason why Wijnaldum won’t be sticking around.
“Probably the reason why they have not moved heaven and earth to keep him is the emergence of Curtis Jones,” he said.
“What I understand, and the evidence is there in terms of the games he’s played, but there are high hopes for Jones playing in that position, left of a three, rather than a front player.
“Probably the emergence of him has made them decide that they’re going to let him go.”
If Jones is to fill in for Wijnaldum next term then he will have big boots for fill.
But the Athletic did suggest a few months ago that Klopp was wanting to give the 20-year-old a role of great importance next term.
Jones has proven his worth to Liverpool this campaign, after making 34 appearances across all competitions.
The youngster scored four times and claimed five assists, and his ability to play across a number of positions makes him a vital squad player.
Whether Liverpool will dip into the market to add further cover for Wijnaldum now remains to be seen, but Klopp may well simply trust Jones to make the step up – seeing as he is fully versed in the way Liverpool play.
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