Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott is eagerly anticipating his first start of the season as the Reds prepare to face Southampton in the Carabao Cup quarter-final at St. Mary’s on Wednesday.
After recovering from a foot injury sustained in September, Elliott has been included in every matchday squad since the November international break, making impactful cameo appearances against Girona and Fulham.
Now fully fit, the 20-year-old is eager to make his mark. Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com, Elliott said:
“I feel fit, I feel 100 per cent. It’s just taking a bit of time – as it does after every injury. I wasn’t really quite there as much as I thought, and the coaching staff and the manager could see that.
It was a mature decision to keep me part of it but not throw me in as quick as possible. It’s built me up, and I am hungrier than ever to get back out on the pitch.”
Harvey Elliott hungry for first start
Reflecting on the recent draw with Fulham, where Liverpool fought back twice with ten men, Elliott emphasized the team’s resilience. He said,
“Football is a tough game as it is, but especially when you go a man down, it’s just that extra hurdle. The team dug really deep and showed determination, hunger, and desire to come back twice. A point is better than losing, but we just have to move on and keep pushing.”
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Elliott acknowledged that while his fitness has returned, match sharpness will only come with more minutes on the pitch.
“Nothing can compare to match fitness, and I feel like that’s what I need. It’s about me working hard in training and proving I’m ready. I’m just waiting for my opportunity now.”
As one of the more experienced young players, Elliott is keen to guide Liverpool’s academy prospects.
“I’ve been in their shoes before. I want them to know I’m here if they need me.”
He said, highlighting the roles of other young leaders like Curtis Jones and Jarell Quansah.
With Southampton undergoing managerial changes, Elliott emphasized the importance of sticking to Liverpool’s game plan.
“Our focus is on what we’ve worked on. We expect a fight, but we’re ready.”
Eyeing another trip to Wembley, Elliott concluded,
“The experiences last season were special. We’re taking it game by game, but we always aim to win.”
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