Harvey Elliott joined Aston Villa from Liverpool in the summer transfer window in a bid to gain playing time lost at Anfield.
The young, versatile player was underused by manager Arne Slott last season and was considered for a move away from the club.
Unai Emery came to his rescue in the summer, or so I thought when we signed Elliott on loan.
Reviving his career is proving difficult for Elliott, who has scored just one goal in seven appearances for the club so far.
Harvey Elliott failed to make an impact at Aston Villa
The 22-year-old has made just four appearances in the Premier League this season, leading to speculation that he could return to Liverpool in January.
Villa are obligated to sign Elliott on a permanent deal for £35m, but all that could change as early as January.
Former Aston Villa CEO Keith Wyness has provided an update on Elliott’s future and what it means for the young midfielder.
“I’m surprised because I think he’s a good player, but he’s not quite in Coach Emery’s eyes yet.” Wyness said this on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast.
“Now, there’s a big conspiracy theory floating around right now: he’s on loan, but if he gets 10 games then the buyout will be triggered.
“There’s talk that Liverpool also want him back, so if the loan isn’t approved he could come back to Liverpool. Maybe Liverpool want to keep him on the bench now while they have problems with these new big-money contracts.”
“Many Liverpool fans I spoke to would have been much happier to have Elliott on the field than any other player.”
Liverpool could consider ending Elliott’s loan spell
Manager Emery has so far found it difficult to get the best out of Elliott, and given the current situation, he could return to Liverpool in January.
Not only is Elliott struggling at Villa, but the Reds lack the depth in midfield that Elliott provided off the bench last season.
Did Liverpool make a mistake in allowing him to leave? It’s still too early to tell, but one thing is for sure: Slot’s team will be better with Elliott on the wing.
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