New dad Curtis Jones capitalized on getting extra rest in the spare room, guiding Liverpool to a crucial victory under Arne Slot. A week after welcoming his first child, Jones stepped in for the unwell Alexis Mac Allister and put on a commanding display against Chelsea, helping secure a 2-1 win at Anfield to keep Liverpool on top.

In addition to winning a penalty and netting the decisive goal, the 23-year-old neutralized the threat of Chelsea’s Cole Palmer, including a crucial goal-saving block.

Slot, who has now won 10 of 11 matches in all competitions since replacing Jurgen Klopp, remains a point ahead of Manchester City, who pulled off a dramatic win against Wolves earlier in the day.

Jones’ man-of-the-match performance crowned an unforgettable week for the local Merseysider.

“I’ve been a dad for a week, and it’s the best thing ever. She’s an absolute dream, but I thought it was smart to stay in the spare room before the game!

“If you want to play in this team, you’ve got to contribute with goals, assists, and work hard defensively.

“As soon as Mo (Salah) had the ball, I made the run. It bounced, so I had to take a touch, and luckily, it went in for the goal.”

Chelsea defender Levi Colwill was shocked that his challenge on Jones resulted in a penalty, which Salah converted.

“I made the play, made a run, and I never dive. I felt the contact,” said Jones, who had another penalty decision later overturned by VAR.

Slot was just as impressed with Jones’ defensive marking of Cole Palmer as he was with his offensive contributions—reminding Anfield of the kind of all-around midfield performance Steven Gerrard used to deliver.