Former Reds midfielder McAteer flags defensive vulnerability in Liverpool's draw
Jason McAteer argues the tactical setup allowed opponents to target the Scouser's lack of experience at the flank
Former Liverpool midfielder Jason McAteer has publicly criticised the team's 1-1 draw against Chelsea at Anfield, identifying Curtis Jones' deployment at right-back as a key tactical failure. Speaking on The Reaction podcast, McAteer argued that Jones' natural tendency to drift into midfield created a defensive vulnerability that Chelsea exploited through the left flank.
The former Republic of Ireland international stated that Chelsea deliberately targeted Jones due to his lack of experience and positional discipline at right-back. McAteer suggested that if he were a leader on the pitch, he would have instructed Jones to hold his position rather than venture into midfield, leaving space for opponents to utilise.
Liverpool started brightly and deservedly took the lead through Ryan Gravenberch, but once Chelsea settled into the game, their attacks repeatedly came down the left-hand side through Marc Cucurella and Cole Palmer. McAteer explained that the former midfielder's instincts as a central midfielder were causing problems defensively, noting that Jones likes to drift inside rather than stay wide.
McAteer made clear he was not criticising the 25-year-old's effort, but instead the positional discipline required when playing out of position. He argued that someone on the pitch should have recognised the danger much earlier and ensured the player did not abandon his defensive duties to join the attack.
This match has added to a growing narrative of frustration among pundits and fans regarding manager Arne Slot's defensive cohesion and recent tactical decisions. Other voices, including Clinton Morrison and Jermaine Pennant, have also voiced strong criticism regarding Slot's choices following this result.
Jones himself actually grew into the contest and thought he had scored in the second half before being denied by the offside flag, but the larger issue remained obvious throughout the afternoon. Liverpool once again looked disjointed defensively, uncertain in possession and far too easy to play through once the momentum shifted away from them.
