England Under 21 boss Lee Carsley wants to see Harvey Elliott maintain his progress at Premier League giants Liverpool as the attacker looks to secure himself a place in Jurgen Klopp’s starting XI.
Despite an overhaul of Liverpool’s midfield options in the summer – Jordan Henderson, James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Fabinho and Naby Keita all making way – opportunities in the starting XI remain somewhat rare for Harvey Elliott.
Now 20 years of age, the former Fulham starlet has only been included in the first XI once in the Premier League so far in 2023/24.
A dazzling display as England’s U21s hammered Northern Ireland at Goodison Park should, at least, do Elliott’s hopes of increased Liverpool game time a shot in the arm, the youngster turning the boos from a cheeky section of Everton supporters into reluctant cheers with a pair of stunning second-half strikes.
Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott shines for Young Lions
“It’s important he keep scoring and assisting because he’s going to be that kind of player,” ex-Toffees enforcer Carsley tells BeIN Sports of Elliott, who now has seven goals or assists in his last four England U21 appearances.
“His stats and data for us are very, very high in terms of his attacking actions around the box, the amount of chances he creates for other players but more importantly, his work rate and the way he presses the ball.
“He has to keep scoring and assisting. It’s a big part of his game. The most important thing for a lot of the players is just staying in the race. Making sure you keep yourself fit, making sure your attitude is in the right place and you’re trying to make yourself selectable.
“Then, when you get the opportunity, taking it.”
Elliott in superb form for England U21s
Starts may have been rare at Liverpool this season but Elliott is still a regular fixture in Klopp’s squad. He made nearly 50 appearances in all competitions in 2022/23.
“To be a young player and to play in the Premier League week in, week out is a big ask,” Carsley adds. “So making sure you’re putting yourself in a position to do that is a big thing.
“He’s come into camp looking really fit. Really sharp. He’s doing the right things. That’s all he can do. When he’s come on for Liverpool he’s made a really good impact and I see that continuing.”
Another Liverpool man – Hull City loanee Tyler Morton – opened the scoring against the Northern Ireland on Tuesday before the Elliott show began, the Anfield number 19 curling home a free-kick before capping off proceedings with a stylish chip.
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