Harvey Elliott determined to make fresh start at Liverpool after difficult Aston Villa loan

Harvey Elliott says he is determined to seize a fresh opportunity at Liverpool after enduring a frustrating loan spell with Aston Villa that limited his playing time

The 23-year-old midfielder spent last season on loan at Villa Park in a deal that included an obligation to buy, dependent on him reaching a set number of appearances. However, with manager Unai Emery giving Elliott only limited opportunities, the clause was never triggered.

After returning to Anfield, Elliott has already featured in Liverpool’s opening two pre-season matches under new head coach Andoni Iraola, and believes the summer has given him the chance to start over.

“I’m here and it’s kind of a second chance, if you want to call it,” Elliott told reporters on Thursday.

“Especially with the gaffer and the new coaching staff coming in, it’s another chance to impress and hopefully get into their good books.”

The England youth international admitted his time at Villa did not unfold as he had hoped but insists he has no regrets and is now fully focused on establishing himself at Liverpool.

“I wish Villa nothing but the very best. Unfortunately, the situation happened, but it’s another learning curve. I’m here now and I’m trying to cement my spot in the team or within the squad.”

Having joined Liverpool from Fulham in 2019, Elliott managed just nine appearances in all competitions during his loan spell with Villa, making it one of the most challenging seasons of his professional career.

Despite the lack of minutes, the midfielder said the experience helped him grow both on and off the pitch.

“Mentally, it was a very tough one. It was a learning curve,” Elliott said.

“It was an opportunity for me to experience something new. As much as I didn’t want to do it, and I wouldn’t wish it upon any other player because it’s not nice at all, I have no hard feelings.”

Although his role was limited, Elliott was still part of Villa’s successful UEFA Europa League campaign, something he described as a memorable achievement.

“I’m on the other side of it now. I was able to get through it and achieve something at the end of the season as well, another historic moment for the club, and to be part of that was a great experience.”

Liverpool, who finished fifth in the Premier League last season, begin their new campaign away to Newcastle United on August 23, with Elliott hoping to force his way into Iraola’s plans during the opening weeks of the season.