Harvey Elliott believes Andoni Iraola’s arrival at Liverpool has given him a fresh opportunity to fight for his place after returning from a frustrating loan spell at Aston Villa.
The 23-year-old featured in Liverpool’s 1-0 pre-season victory over Wrexham in New York on Wednesday, having spent last season at Villa, where he made just nine appearances.
A clause in the loan agreement meant the Midlands club would have been obliged to sign Elliott permanently for £35 million if he had played a 10th match, limiting his opportunities during the campaign.
Despite renewed speculation over his future, Elliott insists his focus is firmly on proving himself under Liverpool’s new head coach.
“Everyone knows how much I love the club,” Elliott said after the match.
“I’ve supported them from a very young age, so the feeling never goes of putting the shirt back on and representing the club. It’s a childhood dream. Every time I put the shirt on I want to give it 100 per cent.”
The England Under-21 international admitted his move to Aston Villa was motivated by a desire to challenge himself away from Anfield, even if it did not unfold as he had hoped.
“I wanted a new challenge. I wanted to kind of go and explore something, come out of my comfort zone, something that I thought personally would take me on as a player,” he said.
“Unfortunately it didn’t work out, but the way I see it, that was last season.”
Elliott now sees Iraola’s arrival as an opportunity to reset and compete for a regular place in Liverpool’s squad.
“Now I’m here, it’s kind of a second chance, if you want to call it that, especially with the gaffer and new coaching staff coming in. It’s a chance to impress.
“I’m here now and I’m trying to cement my spot in the team or within the squad.”
Liverpool continue their pre-season preparations under Iraola as Elliott looks to convince the new manager he can play an important role in the club’s plans for the upcoming campaign.
Read more – Matthias Jaissle emerges as favourite for Newcastle job
Also see – Liverpool Edge Wrexham as Youngsters Impress in New York
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