Pundit Adrian Durham was surprised Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott was never in contention to go to the World Cup with England.
That’s what he said on talkSPORT, following the announcement of Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions squad.
“Harvey Elliott – he never gets talked about [for England] and I can’t get my head around it,” he said.
“I think he’s been excellent for Liverpool and not just in the Premier League, in the Champions League as well.”
Two Anfield stars are set to travel to Qatar later this month, with Trent Alexander-Arnold and club captain Jordan Henderson included on Southgate’s 26-man shortlist.
Durham says Elliott should have been in contention
Having made a big step up in Jurgen Klopp’s squad this season, it is good to see Elliott getting the recognition he deserves.
With a lack of options in the midfield, the 19-year-old has made 13 Premier League appearances this term. Alongside this, he also featured in every single Champions League group game.
On both stages, the youngster has demonstrated his incredible technical ability. His direct dribbling and dazzling footwork has been extremely impressive at Anfield this season. His vision is also exceptional, as he is able to exploit space in behind the defence with pinpoint passes.
However, at times, Elliott has struggled defensively. When coming up against overly physical opposition, the midfielder’s small stature sees him overpowered by size and strength.
The solution is sure to come with time. Over the next few years, the 19-year-old will become bigger and stronger, having fully adjusted to the physicality of the men’s competition.
Saying this, an England call-up seems premature. Whilst he is technically ready to play at a World Cup, his physical presence in the midfield is not there just yet.
Therefore, it is more likely we see Elliott at Euro 2024, and most certainly at the World Cup in 2026.
Either way, it will be good to keep some Reds stars injury-free this winter.
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