Former Chelsea winger turned television pundit Joe Cole did not hold back his admiration for Diogo Jota following Liverpool’s narrow 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace on October 5. The match, held at Selhurst Park, saw the Portuguese international score the decisive goal that helped the Reds secure three valuable points. This victory not only highlighted Liverpool’s solid form under Arne Slot but also pushed the Merseyside club four points clear at the top of the table, asserting their dominance in the early stages of the season. Jota’s contribution was pivotal, and while the final scoreline suggests a closely contested affair, Liverpool arguably should have won by a greater margin.
Jota’s goal came in the ninth minute of the game, thanks to a brilliantly executed cross from Cody Gakpo. Positioned on the left flank, Gakpo delivered a precise ball into the box, and Jota, showcasing his excellent positioning and awareness, connected with it to beat Crystal Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson with a first-time finish. While Liverpool couldn’t extend their lead, it was Jota’s quick instincts and clinical touch that ultimately decided the outcome.
Joe Cole, now a respected pundit after his playing days, was quick to analyze Liverpool’s strong start and the role Jota played in the victory. Speaking to TNT Sports, as quoted by Rousing the Kop, Cole was full of praise for Liverpool’s dynamic play and especially the fluidity of their right-sided attack. “Liverpool have been sensational,” Cole remarked, emphasizing the contributions of players like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, and Curtis Jones. He noted that their movement off the ball, particularly in exploiting the spaces created by Crystal Palace’s defense, was crucial in their dominance early in the match. “When the defenders come out, they’re running into those spaces; it’s where the goal came from.”
Reflecting on Jota’s performance, Cole was particularly impressed by the forward’s ability to stretch Crystal Palace’s defense. “They’ve been fantastic at breaking it down, the movement, particularly Jota, he’s occupying all three of them,” Cole added. His comments pointed to the way Jota has seamlessly fitted into Liverpool’s attacking system, often drifting between defenders and creating confusion in opposition backlines.
Since Arne Slot’s appointment at Liverpool over the summer, Diogo Jota has become the manager’s preferred option in the number nine role, frequently starting ahead of other talented forwards like Darwin Nunez. Slot’s trust in Jota has paid off, with the Portuguese striker scoring four goals in nine appearances this season while also contributing two assists. His ability to combine both scoring and playmaking has made him an invaluable asset for Liverpool.
Jota’s importance to Liverpool goes beyond just this season. Since joining the Reds from Wolverhampton Wanderers in the summer of 2020 for a reported fee of £45 million, Jota has proven his worth time and again. In 153 appearances for the Merseyside giants, he has netted 59 goals and provided 21 assists, a remarkable return for a player who was initially seen as a supporting option in Liverpool’s fearsome attacking trio. Over time, however, he has emerged as a key figure in the club’s success, providing crucial goals in both domestic and European competitions.
His versatility is one of his greatest strengths. Whether playing through the middle as a central striker or drifting wide, Jota has consistently found ways to impact games. His technical ability, combined with his sharp movement and finishing prowess, makes him a nightmare for defenders to mark. Slot’s faith in him as a focal point in Liverpool’s attack has only further enhanced his confidence, and it’s clear that the Portuguese forward is thriving in the role.
As the season progresses, there is little doubt that Jota will continue to play a vital role in Liverpool’s quest for silverware. His knack for scoring in crucial moments and his ability to link up with teammates like Salah and Gakpo will be key to maintaining Liverpool’s title challenge. And with pundits like Joe Cole singing his praises, it’s evident that Jota’s influence on this Liverpool side is only grow
ing stronger.