Paul Merson states why Harvey Elliott shouldn’t be starting for Liverpool ahead of Manchester United clash

Follow us on Google Discover

It seems as though Harvey Elliott has been around for a while now.

But the Liverpool star is only going to turn 21 next April, so for a few more years, you can still consider him a youngster. 

A player who was once the Premier League youngest ever to someone who is now trying to make a name for himself under Jurgen Klopp’s stewardship.

Paul Merson doesn’t think Harvey Elliott is a starter for Liverpool, but he does feel that he is ‘one of the best impact players in the Premier League’, as he told Sky Sports News (16/12/23 at 12:25 pm).

That was proven last week when, for the umpteenth time, the Reds left it late to secure a win, this time thanks to a rocket of a left foot from Harvey Elliott in stoppage-time at Crystal Palace.

Just like he did against Luton Town and also at Wolves, the England U21 international is channelling his inner Divock Origi and David Fairclough from the bench.

As a result, Paul Merson feels that the Fulham academy product serves his team better from the bench than when he is starting.

Super Sub Harvey Elliott

“I think Elliott is one of the best impact players in the Premier League,” said Merson.

“When he comes on for Liverpool, they become a better team. I am not saying they become a better team when he starts the game.

“But when he comes on, he is one of them players who gets really involved very quickly and has a say in the game. I think that’s priceless for Liverpool.”

Liverpool v Manchester United

Usually, these fixtures are supposed to worry, agitate and make you think the glass is half empty rather than full.

But it has been a long while since Liverpool fans went into a game against Manchester United where they have felt so supremely confident.

That 7-0 win will live long in the memory of Liverpool fans, and given Manchester United’s current form, don’t rule out another beating at Anfield.

Pressure is mounting on Erik ten Hag, and with key players injured or suspended, then the Merseyside giants will really have to shoot themselves in the foot to lose this one.