NewsWhy Curtis Jones is playing with a smile on his face

Slot recently described his No.17 as a 'complete' player with an abundance of qualities and confidence, all supported by an incredible work-rate.

Indeed, the head coach's faith in Jones has seen him appear 13 times for the Reds so far this season, helping the team lead the way in the Premier League and Champions League.

"I feel that I'm at the point now where I'm enjoying it the most that I have," Jones said. "I say that in terms of style of play that suits me and the love that I'm getting from the coaches and the staff all around.

"Arne and his staff have come in and the style of play and everything is changing – the way we go and press and stuff. I think it suits me more. As a fresh start, I'll give it everything I can.

"I'm really enjoying it and the most important thing is that I'm playing with a smile on my face."

As a result of his fine form, Jones received another call-up to the England squad for November's UEFA Nations League fixtures.

The 23-year-old is hoping to earn his first cap at senior level on Thursday night when the Three Lions travel to Athens to face Kostas Tsimikas' Greece.

Jones continued: "I will approach the game trying to prove to everybody that I'm the player that they say I am, and the player that I've always been since I was a kid. I think this call-up is huge.

"I've played Champions League games, Premier League games. It's exactly the same there – stadiums are packed, they're loud, intense games, quick games, important games.

"My approach is just exactly the same. I go there, try and be me. I just try to play free with a free mind, try not to overthink anything.

"We go there needing to win and hopefully I'll get my first cap, and hopefully I can be part of an important win."