Crafting Consistency: Harvey Elliott’s Journey from Impact Sub to Starter
From Bench to Key Player: Elliott’s Rising Influence
It sounds crazy to say, but it’s possible to be superb in one sense for the team and still have questions about the overall long-term position. Liverpool’s rising star Harvey Elliott has been a revelation at times this season, and as Reds know particularly when springing from the bench. Another couple of standout moments came against Burnley, where his crucial assists underlined his capability to sway the game’s momentum in Liverpool’s favour. What it also did though was open up the never-ending question that gets levelled against the former Fulham man and may only be answered next season.
From Substitute to Starter: Elliott’s Next Chapter Unwritten
While Elliott’s impact as a substitute is undisputed, the true test lies ahead. The upcoming season is pivotal for the young midfielder to cement his place Ian’s a game changer. That’s exactly what he is still as his sporadic flashes of brilliance are just that. However, that hasn’t translated into consistent, match-starting performances at any time this campaign. The difference between the two has been marked and Jurgen Klopp has been well aware of it.
Statistically Speaking: Elliott’s Influential Numbers
Elliott’s statistics offer a glimpse into his potential. Two assists this weekend against Burnley were a testament to his playmaking abilities and he’s one that you look for on the bench when we need to change it. There’s been the match-winner against Crystal Palace too, however, the reality has been that the 20-year-old has struggled when starting, often lacking the physicality or pressing with education at times not aligned to expectations of Klopp midfielders. Harsher critics will argue that after 98 appearances for the Reds, we’d be looking for a greater starting impact by now.
Backed by Teammates, Ready for More
Both Elliott and his teammates recognise the significance of his development. “Every game is going to be very hard… we had to find the moments where we could break them down and score vital goals and be clinical – and that’s exactly what we did today,” Elliott reflected on the team’s performance. Meanwhile, Andy Robertson attests to Elliott’s impact, stating, “Harvey always seems to make an impact and he was different class in the second half.”
His team-mates won’t be harsh and neither will Jurgen Klopp or the next incumbent at Anfield. There’s a talent with Elliott and for now, an impact from the bench is more than ideal. However, the can will be kicked down the road and next year you feel there may be a leap needed for his long-term future. It could be argued that Curtis Jones took real time to be the one that he is now, however, Elliott doesn’t possess the physicality of Liverpool’s other young gem and that’s where the questions may ultimately lie. A new manager may have other ideas, but next year feels pivotal.
