Slot empathises with Elliott as he faces uncertain future

Liverpool boss Arne Slot understands Harvey Elliott's frustrations of not playing at Aston Villa.

The 22-year-old has made just five appearances this season - and played only 96 Premier League minutes - since joining Villa on loan on deadline day.

The move will become permanent for £35m if he makes 10 appearances and talks are expected this month to find a resolution.

Slot said: "I haven't had contact with him a lot, I think only once or twice and that was before and after he played Feyenoord away - nothing to do with the fact he played against a former club of mine.

"I am aware of his situation, of course. I knew how difficult it already was for him over here, so I think I know how he feels at this moment - but you should ask those questions at Villa and not over here."

Elliott - player of the tournament as England Under-21s won Euro 2025 in the summer - moved to play more football, having made just two Premier League starts as Liverpool won the Premier League last season.

However, he has not played in the league since 28 September, where he was taken off at half-time against Fulham in his only start, and last featured for Villa on 2 October, playing four minutes against Feyenoord in the Europa League.

He came on as an 89th-minute substitute against Newcastle in August, meaning he cannot play for a third team this season - unless he moves to an overlapping league like the MLS, an option which is not under consideration.