Liverpool’s final Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park had all the ingredients to go down as one of the most iconic in the fixture’s history.
In a throwback game which was punctuated by pure drama, there was even a good old fashioned bit of handbags at the final whistle.
From a Liverpool point of view, the sight of Curtis Jones defending the away supporters against the taunts of Abdoulaye Doucoure will live long in the memory.
The Reds did throw away two valuable points against Everton, which could yet impact them in the Premier League title race.
But while plenty within the Liverpool squad did not cover themselves in glory, Jones became an instant hero overnight.
And as the fallout from his scuffle with Doucoure continues, some comments the Liverpool academy graduate made about the Merseyside Derby in 2024 have emerged to take on a whole new meaning.
Curtis Jones rates Merseyside Derby as top rivalry
Some people will have differing views on Jones’ decision to confront Doucoure about his antics towards the Liverpool fans.
The 24-year-old will now miss Sunday’s game against Wolves in a period of the season where Arne Slot could do with having everyone available.
Jones and Doucoure’s coming together also raised the tension in the ground and perhaps even contributed to Slot himself getting sent off.
Nevertheless, plenty will feel Curtis was well within his rights to do what he did. And after revisiting an interview he gave to Sky Sports in October 2024, it begins to make sense why the midfielder felt he had to intervene.
Asked to name his top rivalry as a Liverpool player, Jones has no hesitation in naming Everton ahead of Manchester United at number one.
“Yeah, that just comes down to being a Scouser,” smiled the England international.
“I’m a Liverpool fan from a kid and my family are as well. Obviously now I’ve got friends who are Everton fans and that back and forth with them is always nice as well, just to say if you go and win the game it’s our city until the next time.”
How long will Jones be suspended for?
In a busy Liverpool fixture list, they could really do without added absences from the squad.
However, it’s fair to say that Jones has a pass from the majority of the fanbase after showing his committment to the cause.
Slot will only have to make do without his No.17 for one match, as well, and an Anfield clash with Wolves is arguably the least difficult of Liverpool’s upcoming run.
Jones should then be fit and ready to head into games against Aston Villa, Man City and Newcastle refreshed and at full fitness.
And when Everton come to town on April the 2nd, oh boy, you can bet Curtis will be dying to get his teeth into that one.
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