Harvey Elliott, a Liverpool teenager, has been named by an American publication as one of the best young players in the world, as compiled by scouts and directors
Harvey Elliott, a Liverpool teenager, has been named one of the world’s most exciting young players.
Elliott has had a fantastic season under Jürgen Klopp after suffering a horrific double fracture last season. He’s made 40 appearances across all competitions this season, and his progression has been one of the few bright spots in what has been a disappointing campaign for the Reds.
ESPN named Elliott one of the world’s best players under the age of 21.
The American outlet ranked 39 players from around the world using scouts and sporting directors from around the world, and Elliott was ranked 36th.
“Strengths: Energetic, lively, and light on his feet, the England U21 international presses with intent and creates space with his movement,” ESPN said of Elliott.
“On the ball, he contributes to the fluidity of the game with instinctive touches, direct passing, and excellent dribbling abilities. His left foot is also of high quality, despite being underutilized in set-pieces and long-distance shooting.”
They also identified areas of Elliott’s game that he could improve and refine in the coming years.
“How he can improve: In addition to his inconsistent defensive contribution and physical deficiencies in terms of strength and height, Elliott should try to beat opponents in central areas more often, especially since he’s so good at it. Given his creativity and intelligence, one would expect him to contribute more than his five goals and two assists in 40 games this season.”
Elliott has three goals in all competitions for Liverpool this season and has been used in various roles across the midfield and attack by Jürgen Klopp, demonstrating the manager’s faith in the youngster.
Klopp is a big fan — “He is a fearless boy and a great footballer,” the German said when Elliott returned from injury last season — and Elliott’s ESPN ranking is yet another testament to his talent.
According to Liverpool.com, it’s great to see Elliott getting recognition for his progress this season. Given how last season was robbed from him due to the horrific injury, he’s come through most of it unscathed and in very good form this season.
The hope is that he will continue to develop over the next few months and into next season, and that he will have a very bright future. It wouldn’t surprise me if he ranked higher on this list in a year.
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