Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones has opened up about his special relationship with former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, describing him as a father figure. The young midfielder, who made his debut for the Reds under Klopp back in January 2019, has spoken extensively about the impact the German manager had on his career and personal development.

Jones, a local lad who grew up supporting Liverpool, acknowledges Klopp's pivotal role in his transition from a promising academy player to a seasoned professional. He credits Klopp with transforming him "from a boy to a man," instilling in him a deeper understanding of the game and nurturing his maturity. "I owe him so much," Jones stated, emphasizing the profound influence Klopp had on his life.

However, their relationship wasn't always smooth sailing. Jones admits there were disagreements and times when he questioned Klopp's decisions. As a player eager for game time, he sometimes felt frustrated when left out of the squad or when a loan spell seemed like the necessary path to more minutes. Yet, he always respected Klopp's choices, recognizing the manager's experience and strategic vision.

Klopp, known for his emotional intelligence and ability to connect with players on a personal level, understood Jones' burning desire to play. He challenged Jones to improve his game, adapt to the demands of the first team, and earn his place in the squad. Jones recalls Klopp's direct feedback, "look, you need to do this, you need to do that, or do this, you need to adapt," which pushed him to constantly evolve and refine his skills.

Jones also revealed seeking Klopp's guidance, proactively asking him, "look, what am I doing? And how do I move the one who's ahead of me out of the way?". This proactive approach highlights Jones' commitment to self-improvement and his willingness to learn from his manager's expertise.

Klopp's faith in Jones was unwavering, even during challenging periods. He kept Jones within the team environment, providing him with invaluable opportunities to learn from senior players and understand the tactical nuances of the game. This mentorship proved crucial in Jones' development, shaping him into a more complete and versatile midfielder.

Jones' journey at Liverpool hasn't always been easy. He faced periods of frustration, including being left out of the squad and dealing with injuries. However, he persevered, driven by his love for the club and his determination to succeed. He acknowledges that there were times he could have "moaned and sulked" over a lack of game time, but his "team first" mentality always prevailed.

Despite the arrival of new signings and increased competition for places, Jones has consistently demonstrated his value to the team. He has become an integral part of Liverpool's midfield, showcasing his technical ability, tactical awareness, and relentless work ethic. This season, Jones made 33 appearances in the Premier League, a testament to his growth and Klopp's trust in his abilities.

Jones' story is one of perseverance, dedication, and the transformative power of a strong mentor-mentee relationship. Jurgen Klopp not only guided Jones' career but also played a significant role in shaping him into the person he is today. As Jones continues his journey at Liverpool, he carries with him the lessons and values instilled by his former boss, forever grateful for the impact Klopp had on his life.