Liverpool analysis - Thiago Alcantara remarkable truth emerges as Curtis Jones theories rubbished

There was a point during the spluttering early stages of his L iverpool career when merely seeing Thiago Alcantara fit and available was considered a signifcant bonus.

So for the Spaniard to reach 50 appearances for the Reds, as he did so here in conducting the romp against Leeds United, underlined how he has long banished any lingering doubts over his suitability to prosper under Jurgen Klopp.

The best players always find a way. But rather than reshape his natural game, Thiago has found Liverpool gradually tweaking their overall style to optimise the Spaniard’s contribution.

Key to that has been his partnership with Fabinho, the duo still yet to finish on a losing side in which they’ve been paired in midfield.

Then there is the remarkable statistic Liverpool have won each of the last 17 games in which Thiago has started and haven’t lost since the 1-0 home defeat to Chelsea almost 12 months ago.

Of course, it was against the Londoners the Spaniard made his debut in September 2020 during an impressive second-half cameo the promise of which was then halted by his injury against Everton.

Much has happened since then. And having reached a half-century, it would be a surprise if Thiago doesn’t make appearance number 51 at Wembley on Sunday. He is a man in form.

It has been a curious 2022 for Curtis Jones.

Having brought in the New Year by making his long-awaited return from an eye injury with a late cameo at Chelsea, the 21-year-old then appeared in the next seven games including a stellar showing in the Carabao Cup semi-final win at Arsenal.

But after being hooked before the hour in the win over Leicester City, Jones failed to make even the bench in the next three games.

Underlining the intense competition for places in