Harvey Elliott says he doesn’t want to be Liverpool’s super substitute but won’t beat himself if he doesn’t start.
Elliott’s campaign has been marked by notable cameos from the bench, including in Saturday’s win over Crystal Palace. The 20-year-old fired an injury-time winner at a crucial moment after Jordan Ayew received his second yellow card for the Reds to put his side top of the Premier League.
Elliott admits he will have to be patient as he waits for his chance given the quality of the Anfield squad, but insists he will not get too comfortable with influence replacing fame. “I think it’s about taking the time to analyze our opponents, analyze the players we’re playing against, analyze our players and see what they’re doing and what’s not working,” he says.
Elliott said he was always impressed as a substitute.”It’s good what I’m doing, but if they were to do it again, they might try something different. For me, it’s being fully focused and aware of the game, especially the other team.
Look where I can take it, where I can use that position. You can sit and analyze things from a different perspective than if you were sitting on the couch.“I’m not worried about starting as much as I want to be.
But it gives me another opportunity and hopefully I can use it when I come and change the game. “I don’t want to be known as a super subject. It’s also a great theme, a beautiful theme, but at the same time I want to be part of the team. Now it’s time to get back into that position and play well.
But at the same time, you have to be patient and very subjective.”Elliott, who is expected to start Thursday’s Europa League game with Union Saint-Giloise, added: “But I still have to enjoy my football, play with a smile and if you’re a super sub, that’s fine. And do your best for the team.
I’m happy to wear the shirt but I want to do my best this season.“[Being extra] is part of the job. If you look at the squad, we have world-class players, but it’s about me taking risks and strengthening myself.
When I get the opportunity to go out and play, I have to see if I can have a positive impact on the game and bring something different to the team. In my career, I always have to be patient.”It won’t be clear.
There will always be ups and downs, but you just have to work hard. You will see the talent we have brought in and the talent we already have at the club and you will see a lot of names! But it’s a healthy competition, it’s a healthy relationship between the players and we always want to try to push each other forward.
No one is selfish in wanting to “play.” We all support each other and make a difference when called upon. I think the great thing about this team is that we are one team globally. We are in season and we are 100% together. That’s what makes this place special.”
