“‘That could be it’ – Liverpool loanee might have already featured in his final game for his current club”
A Liverpool loanee is currently facing an uncertain future as he struggles for minutes at his temporary club.
Harvey Elliott joined Aston Villa on loan late in the summer window, with the agreement including an obligation to buy once he reaches 10 appearances for the Midlands side (The Athletic).
However, the 22-year-old has been limited to just five matches since coming off the bench in Villa’s win over Feyenoord at the start of October, clocking only 167 minutes of action since his move from Anfield (Transfermarkt).
Villa urged to decide Elliott’s fate
Still technically a Liverpool player, Elliott was omitted from the squad for Villa’s 4-0 victory against Bournemouth on Sunday. Former Villa chief scout Mick Brown has urged the club to make a swift decision on the midfielder’s situation.
Speaking to Football Insider, Brown said:
“Aston Villa have got to make a decision about Harvey Elliott. If he plays 10 games, they’re obliged to sign him permanently — whatever that costs. The question is, would that be worth it? From what we’re seeing, probably not.
“If he’s fit and training but not making the matchday squad, there’s clearly a reason. It might well be that he’s already played his last game for Villa, which would be a shame because he’s a talented player. But if he’s not fitting in, that might be that. The manager clearly doesn’t trust him, so a decision needs to be made.”
No winners from Elliott’s current situation
Despite making a good impression in training and showing flashes of quality early on, Elliott’s lack of involvement under Unai Emery is helping no one. Liverpool can’t use him, Villa won’t use him, and the player is left on the sidelines.
The 22-year-old is far too gifted to remain inactive for long. If Emery doesn’t plan to use him, Liverpool should consider recalling him and reassessing his situation.
Although Arne Slot didn’t rely heavily on him last season, having him back at Anfield — available and match-fit — would be preferable to watching his progress stall in Birmingham.
Emery publicly criticised Elliott’s decision-making after Villa’s draw with Sunderland in September, and given his continued exclusion, it’s fair to question whether their relationship has broken down.
If the Spaniard doesn’t intend to reintegrate him anytime soon, both clubs would be wise to end the loan early — as no one is benefiting from the current arrangement.
