Szoboszlai dismisses split rumours with Curtis Jones and emerges As top vice‑Captain candidate

Hungarian midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has put an end to speculation of a rift with teammate Curtis Jones, insisting the brief on‑pitch dispute captured during Liverpool’s 1‑0 pre‑season win over Wrexham was blown out of proportion. The player said “everyone at Liverpool is cool” and that there is no lingering animosity between the two.

The incident, which showed the pair arguing over the captain’s armband before Kostas Tsimikas tossed it onto the Yankee Stadium turf, sparked fan theories that Jones felt overlooked. Szoboszlai clarified that the matter was resolved quickly and the media “made it very big”.

With Virgil van Dijk still on an extended post‑World Cup break and Andy Robertson’s recent move to Tottenham leaving a vacancy, Liverpool now face the urgent task of naming a new vice‑captain. The decision has gained extra weight as van Dijk’s contract expires at the end of the season, fuelling speculation about his future.

Having briefly worn the armband on the tour, Szoboszlai emerged as a leading candidate for the deputy role. He acknowledged the honour of leading the side on the road but stressed the final call rests with the club, adding, “If you get offered the vice‑captain in Liverpool, you’re going to take it. It would be a proud moment for me.”

He also highlighted other potential contenders, naming goalkeeper Alisson and defender Joe Gomez, though both are currently unavailable – Alisson is not on tour and Gomez is nursing an injury. “We have Ali, we have Joe Gomez… obviously Ali is not on tour. Joe is injured,” Szoboszlai noted, indicating the competition remains open.

Regardless of who is appointed, the midfielder reiterated his commitment to squad unity, stating that the team will rally behind the chosen leader. “So either way, whoever it’s going to be, we’re going to follow them,” he said, underscoring a collective focus on harmony ahead of the new season.

Liverpool’s management have yet to announce a formal vice‑captain, but Szoboszlai’s comments suggest a clear willingness to step into a leadership role while maintaining dressing‑room cohesion.