Liverpool's Harvey Elliott dominates for England Under-21s, targets senior spotlight

Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott has vowed to keep starring for England Under-21s as he eyes a senior role.

The 20-year-old has shone for the Young Lions this year, helping them to Euro 2023 glory in the summer.

He continued his form with a classy double in Tuesday's 3-0 win over Northern Ireland to make it five goals in five Euro 2025 qualifying games.

Elliott impressed in front of England assistant manager Steve Holland at Goodison Park and believes he can make the step up.

"I don't think it's a big one because these lads are playing week in, week out for their teams – some against the same players who are in that squad," he said, having seen team-mates Cole Palmer and Rico Lewis promoted to Gareth Southgate's senior squad this month.

"You look at the squad and the first-team players who aren't in the squad, like (Raheem) Sterling, they are all unbelievable talents and world-class players.

"You can't take these games for granted. Every time I put on the England shirt it is with a smile and I just want to go out and play my football, whatever age group it is. I'm just happy to go out and play and take these opportunities.

"I just need to keep doing my thing, stay patient. I am still a young kid and loving my football at the moment. Every time I step on the pitch I'm the happiest kid in the world. That is what I want to keep doing.

"There are world-class players in that (senior) team. You need to be confident in yourself and hope you get that opportunity."

Elliott has made 16 appearances for Liverpool this season, making just one Premier League start, and has yet to score – something he acknowledges he must work on.

"It is something I get criticised on, especially at Liverpool, and it is something I need to do more of at Liverpool, score and create goals, especially in that advanced role which I play," he said.

"It's more my dad, to be honest. Social media is social media, it can turn quickly. Everyone can love you or hate you in a matter of minutes. For me I don't focus about it too much.

"I listen to the important people around me: my family, the coaches and the players who are all trying to help me out. It is more my dad who criticises me a lot!

"I've had a few chances for Liverpool these season but these things happen. I just need to take my confidence now into the next games. It is going to be a lot harder to get opportunities. I'm full of confidence now."

Elliott is now preparing for Liverpool's showdown with leaders Manchester City on Saturday lunchtime knowing a win at the Etihad would send the Reds top of the Premier League.

He added: "We need to start preparing for that game, make sure we're mentally there and prepared.

"We know it's going to be a tough game at the Etihad, against a world-class team. We've had a good international break and we'll take it into the weekend."

 

Read More: Harry Kane best in the world and England missed him – Harry Maguire (planetsport.com)