Liverpool's Harvey Elliott has found himself in a precarious situation at Aston Villa. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder was heavily touted as part of Liverpool's future when he joined the club on loan in August, but just five months later, his prospects have diminished dramatically.
Elliott's form for Villa has been underwhelming, and his lack of impact has raised concerns about whether the move will ultimately benefit him. His only appearances for the club have come as a substitute, and it appears that Villa are no longer willing to invest in him.
The situation is further complicated by Elliott's inability to displace Morgan Rogers and Emi Buendia, who have both emerged as key players under Unai Emery. The attacking duo has provided Emery with options, making it increasingly difficult for Elliott to force his way into the team.
With a World Cup year approaching, Elliott's future is now hanging in the balance. It seems likely that he will be forced to consider a return to Anfield, where he would essentially be recalled from loan without the option of buying him outright. However, this would mean that Liverpool would be selling on a player who has only played 96 minutes in the Premier League.
The prospect of Elliott being sent out on loan again or looking elsewhere for a fresh start seems increasingly likely. His ambition and desire to take his career to the next level are well-documented, but it appears that Villa have moved on from him without hesitation.
It's unclear what the future holds for Elliott, but one thing is certain: he must take drastic action if he wants to salvage his season and make a strong case for himself at the World Cup.
Elliott's form for Villa has been underwhelming, and his lack of impact has raised concerns about whether the move will ultimately benefit him. His only appearances for the club have come as a substitute, and it appears that Villa are no longer willing to invest in him.
The situation is further complicated by Elliott's inability to displace Morgan Rogers and Emi Buendia, who have both emerged as key players under Unai Emery. The attacking duo has provided Emery with options, making it increasingly difficult for Elliott to force his way into the team.
With a World Cup year approaching, Elliott's future is now hanging in the balance. It seems likely that he will be forced to consider a return to Anfield, where he would essentially be recalled from loan without the option of buying him outright. However, this would mean that Liverpool would be selling on a player who has only played 96 minutes in the Premier League.
The prospect of Elliott being sent out on loan again or looking elsewhere for a fresh start seems increasingly likely. His ambition and desire to take his career to the next level are well-documented, but it appears that Villa have moved on from him without hesitation.
It's unclear what the future holds for Elliott, but one thing is certain: he must take drastic action if he wants to salvage his season and make a strong case for himself at the World Cup.