Harvey Elliott has endured a difficult season so far after an extended spell on the sidelines for Liverpool.
He fractured his foot while representing the England U-21s earlier this season and has made just nine appearances under Arne Slot.
However, the EFL Cup semifinal against Tottenham Hotspur later today could be a spring in his step, with Elliott in line for a start away from home in the first leg.
And now, the youngster has given his candid thoughts on what his best position is for Liverpool and the competition he faces from Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones, among others.
Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott full of praise for Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai
Elliott has predominantly featured as one of the two free number eights in a 4-3-3 for Liverpool. Currently, with Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister shoo-ins to start every game, there is only one free spot open in the center of the park.
Jones and Szoboszlai have played that role for Slot quite well, but Elliott’s season hasn’t gone as planned as he suffered an early injury setback.
However, he has returned to the side in recent weeks and started the EFL Cup quarterfinal, scoring in the 3-1 win against Southampton.
Describing the number ten position as his strongest suit, Elliott also acknowledged that he is more than happy to compete for a starting spot with Jones and Szoboszlai, describing them as ‘world-class’ footballers.
“I feel like that’s my strongest point, especially when it comes to the creativity side of things and the playmaking,” said Elliott via The Times.
“That’s the position I play at England and I feel like I can really show my attributes. But on top of that, we have two other world-class No10s in Curtis and Dom.
“It’s not going to be easy at all. It’s just about waiting for my moment, my opportunities and trying to take them with everything I have.
“On top of that, when I do get brought in, whether it’s as a sub or wherever I start, I just want to try to contribute for the team and be the best possible player I can.
Elliott can stake his claim this week
Liverpool could make a few changes to their starting XI against Tottenham and Elliott could be handed his chance in the cup again as he works his way up to full fitness.
Liverpool play Accrington Stanley in the FA Cup this weekend and the 21-year-old is expected to feature heavily in that one as well, signalling that this is an important week for him.
The Reds are competing on all fronts this season and a player like Elliott could be some option at the business end if he clicks into gear.
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