Liverpool loanee Harvey Elliott is facing a battle to establish himself in the Valencia team this season, having been limited to appearances from the substitutes’ bench.
Elliott joined Valencia on a season-long loan in the summer in search of regular first-team football after a frustrating spell at Aston Villa.
However, the 23-year-old is yet to start a match for the La Liga club, making five appearances as a substitute, amid suggestions that he arrived at the Mestalla overweight.
His situation became more complicated following the departure of Carlos Corberan, who had played a key role in bringing him to Valencia.
Javier Aguirre subsequently took charge and was reportedly surprised by Elliott’s performance data, although he believes the Liverpool loanee should feature regularly after assessing him in training. Aguirre has also praised Elliott’s attitude and expressed satisfaction with the quality he brings to the squad.
Aguirre said via Super Deporte: “I am fortunate that I communicate in their language. I see him more refined, he is working with a private nutritionist.
“I’m delighted with his attitude, he has a lot of quality and he’s a Valencia CF player. You have to get the best possible out of it.”
According to Spanish outlet Marca, Valencia sporting director Braulio Vazquez recently met with Kiko Espinar, one of Liverpool’s key figures in Spain.
During the meeting, the possibility of Elliott returning to England and ending his loan spell in January was ruled out. The Reds’ scout also spoke with Aguirre and Elliott to understand both the manager’s plans for the midfielder and the player’s expectations for the coming matches.
Valencia face Villarreal this weekend, and it remains to be seen whether Elliott earns his first start for Los Che. The 23-year-old will also be eager to register his first goal contribution for the Spanish side, with Liverpool continuing to monitor his performances.
Elliott joined Aston Villa on loan last summer in a deal that included an option to make the move permanent, triggered after 10 Premier League starts. However, Unai Emery quickly decided against signing him, leaving the midfielder in limbo for the remainder of the season.
His subsequent return to Liverpool gave him an opportunity to work his way into Andoni Iraola’s plans, but he failed to make the most of his chances during pre-season.
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