Harvey Elliott’s Role at Liverpool: Why He’s Poised for a Breakthrough Season
Harvey Elliott remains one of Liverpool’s most intriguing young talents, a player whose development has been closely watched since his arrival at Anfield. At just 21 years old, Elliott is still maturing as a footballer, yet his technical ability and football intelligence have already earned him comparisons to some of the Premier League’s elite. As Liverpool embark on a new season under Arne Slot, Elliott’s role could be pivotal, even if he doesn’t always start games.
Elliott’s Evolving Role Under Slot
Last season, Elliott was often deployed as a “super sub,” a role in which he excelled by injecting energy and creativity into the team when coming off the bench. In Liverpool’s recent match against Ipswich Town, Dominik Szoboszlai was preferred in the starting lineup, with Elliott waiting in the wings. However, this doesn’t diminish Elliott’s importance or potential impact in the months ahead.
Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville, both seasoned pundits and former Premier League stars, have high praise for Elliott. Carragher believes that Arne Slot’s tactical setup might actually suit Elliott more than Jurgen Klopp’s previous system. “He used to play in place of Mohamed Salah [on the right under Klopp], but he doesn’t have the pace for that. I definitely think he is someone who plays in the centre. I think Slot plays with more of a number 10,” Carragher observed.
This shift in positioning could be crucial for Elliott’s development. Slot’s system, which often utilises a number 10 role, may offer Elliott more opportunities to influence games from central areas, where his vision and ball control can be fully utilised.
Comparisons to Bernardo Silva
Gary Neville has taken the comparison a step further, likening Elliott to Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva, one of the most technically gifted players in the Premier League. “I always thought last season, when I watched Liverpool, every time he came on, they had more about them,” Neville said. “Pep Guardiola would love him. Like a Bernardo Silva, you think about him in terms of the way he plays.”
This comparison is not just flattery; it underscores Elliott’s potential to become a “wide-controller,” a player who can dictate the tempo of the game from wider areas of the pitch. In a modern football landscape where versatility is prized, Elliott’s ability to operate effectively in multiple positions could make him an invaluable asset for Liverpool.
Navigating the Competition
While Elliott’s talent is undeniable, breaking into Liverpool’s starting XI is no small feat. The arrival of Dominik Szoboszlai has added more competition in the attacking midfield role, but this should be seen as an opportunity rather than an obstacle. Szoboszlai’s presence could push Elliott to elevate his game, fostering a healthy competition that benefits the team as a whole.
Liverpool’s depth in attacking midfield also means that Slot can manage Elliott’s minutes carefully, allowing him to remain fresh and sharp throughout the season. Last year, Elliott’s reduced playing time at certain stages may have frustrated him, but it also meant that when he did play, he often made a significant impact.
Looking Ahead: Elliott’s Potential to Shine
As Liverpool navigates the demands of a new season, Harvey Elliott’s role will be one to watch. Even if he doesn’t immediately displace Szoboszlai or other established stars in the lineup, his ability to come off the bench and change the dynamic of a match is a weapon that Slot will likely rely on.
Moreover, Elliott’s continued development could see him become a regular starter in the near future. His technical ability, combined with a growing tactical awareness, positions him as a key player for Liverpool, both now and in the years to come. Neville’s suggestion that Elliott could thrive in Spain is a testament to his playing style, but Liverpool will be keen to ensure that he reaches his potential in the Premier League.
Conclusion
Harvey Elliott is at a critical juncture in his Liverpool career. With the backing of experienced voices like Carragher and Neville and the opportunity to grow under Arne Slot’s system, Elliott has all the tools to make this season his breakthrough year. Whether as a starter or a super sub, his contributions will be vital as Liverpool aims to compete on multiple fronts. As comparisons to Bernardo Silva suggest, Elliott’s ceiling is high, and his journey is only just beginning.
