Jones plays the role of defender: I have to do my job well

In the focus match of the 30th round of the 2024/25 Premier League, Liverpool defeated Everton 1-0 in the Merseyside derby with Jota's goal in the second half. Liverpool midfielder Jones, who played as a defender in this game, said that the coach believed he could be competent for this position, so he had to complete the task.

In the 57th minute of the second half, Diaz passed the ball, Jota shook off the defense and shot low into the goal, helping Liverpool take the lead 1-0.

In the end, Liverpool defeated Everton 1-0 at Anfield. After winning four games in a row, Liverpool currently ranks first in the standings with 73 points, 12 points ahead of Arsenal, which is in second place.

The 24-year-old England midfielder Jones said in an interview, "This is of course an important victory. We have a crucial schedule after returning from the national team match day. This is the first game and we got 3 points and it was a zero, so it can be said to be a perfect start."

Talking about being arranged by coach Sloter to play as a defender in this game, Jones shared, "In fact, I have always said that, at the end of the day, I am a football player. What I want to play most is the No. 8, No. 10 or false No. 9, as well as left winger and other positions, but I just want to play and do my best to help the team."

"But the players in the team have performed very well, and I can only wait patiently for the opportunity. I always believe in my ability, but in the end it depends on the arrangements of the coach and the coaching staff. He makes the best decision for the team. I respect this, and I will be ready at any time when he needs me to play."

Jones continued, "The opponent played long balls throughout the game, so I often had to retreat to the back line, especially the back post, and was always clearing the ball, blocking shots and crosses. This is part of the game and what a right-back needs to do. He trusts me to play in this position, so I have to do this task well."

In addition, Jones also said, "Jota is really outstanding, as well as the players who came on the bench and the teammates who started. Our team is great. Whether it is starting or substitute, everyone knows that this is all for the team."

"Jota hasn't scored in the last few games, but he's been fighting hard. He's working hard, and that's our trust in him. Even if he doesn't score or assist, we know he'll always be running hard and helping the team at any time. But he's scored now, and that's what matters most."