Harvey Elliott has confessed to being surprised at how many games he played for Liverpool last season.
While the youngster made his Reds debut almost four years ago, it was in 2022-23 when he emerged as a regular fixture. Elliott made 46 appearances across all competitions.
There were suggestions about a potential loan spell last summer but Elliott stayed put as Liverpool opted to develop him in and around the first team. The midfielder can be regarded as one of the few positives from an otherwise underwhelming campaign for the Reds.
His team-mates are on holiday recharging their batteries but, for Elliott, the season is not over. The Liverpool prospect is on international duty with England as the Young Lions aim to win the European Under-21 Championships in Romania and Georgia.
READ MORE: Nicolo Barella gives Liverpool answer as Newcastle United close in on £60m transfer
READ MORE: Khepren Thuram transfer hint has been followed by clearest possible Liverpool message
Elliott is part of a squad which also includes his Liverpool team-mate Curtis Jones and the likes of Emile Smith Rowe, Morgan Gibbs-White, Levi Colwill and former Everton winger Anthony Gordon. And speaking exclusively to the Daily Mail, Elliott admitted he played “more than expected” in the recent Premier League campaign - while saving special praise for Reds boss Jurgen Klopp.
“If anything, I've played more than I expected this season,” Elliott said. “People keep saying I'm young but I don't feel like it! When you step back, put it into perspective, this was my first proper season at Liverpool.
“The number of minutes and experiences I've gained have been great and hopefully I can kick on. Klopp hasn't said much (about the future) to be honest. It's up to me to go out and find those answers. I trust him with everything.”
Elliott also welcomed Alexis Mac Allister’s arrival at Anfield, despite the midfielder possibly signalling bad news for his own Liverpool hopes. The 20-year-old acknowledged how, at his age, he cannot expect to play every game.
“It's all part of it (being on the bench),” Elliott added. “I'm still young - still growing up - and I'm not expecting to play every game. We've bought one new player (Mac Allister) and there will be more to come. It's about making sure, with respect to them, that I am better. It's healthy competition, it's what you want.”
