England and Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has hit out at the Football Association for “being late” in handing Curtis Jones his international debut following the midfielder’s display in the 3-0 win over Greece.

The 23-year-old has impressed during the Reds’ brilliant start to the 2024/25 season and was named in an injury-stricken Three Lions squad for this month’s Nations League clashes with Greece and the Republic of Ireland.

Jones started Thursday’s 3-0 victory over Greece, finally making his first appearance for the men’s side having been included in a previous camp before Euro 2024, and scored in the 83rd minute with a devilish flick with the back of his foot.

His performance prompted what was probably a light-hearted prod from current Al Ettifaq manager Gerrard towards the FA on social media. Posting a story on Instagram, the 44-year-old wrote: “What a player, fine the FA and all the coaches for being late.”

Jones’ display was enough to warrant further praise from interim England manager Lee Carsley, who deployed him alongside Conor Gallagher and the further advanced Jude Bellingham in midfield at the Olympic Stadium.

He said: “Curtis Jones is an outstanding player. He played really well, even without his goal. With his goal it was an excellent performance. People were speaking last night about the inexperience in the squad but these players are playing for their clubs at a really high level.”

Jones may well have done enough to retain his place in England’s starting XI for Sunday’s clash with Ireland. The Three Lions are now top of their Nations League group and can confirm automatic promotion back into League A with victory over the Boys in Green.

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