Origi before Jones: The agonizing moments that shaped Liverpool’s loss to Brighton

Origi coming on before Curtis Jones

What Divock Origi has done to deserve playing time in recent games is beyond me. Perhaps it’s something in training, but it certainly isn’t translating to anything valuable on the field.

Curtis Jones, on the other hand, was instrumental in Liverpool’s trip to London against West Ham, making an immediate impact off the bench. The Scouser who recently turned 20-years-old gives the side an element of drive which other midfielders often fail to do.

Despite the obvious advantages which bringing Curtis on entail, Jurgen opted to bring on Origi and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. The latter’s inclusion is understandable, as he does have a knack for long-range strikes, which did seem like the only way Liverpool were going to equalize.

The duo was brought on in the 64th minute, and neither really contributed to Liverpool’s forward play. Jurgen left bringing Curtis on far too late, as the youngster was only handed ten minutes to change the game for Liverpool.

What’s interesting is that Curtis has been snubbed in the last six Premier League starting XI’s for his side, staying on the bench on two of these occasions despite Liverpool being in losing positions.

To me, it’s simple if Henderson isn’t able to play in midfield, Curtis Jones has to start. Wijnaldum and Milner is a combination that just doesn’t work in the absence of a player like Hendo, who gives them ample room to move forward.