Arne Slot has expressed delight over the return of Harvey Elliott to training following a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to a fractured foot. However, Arne Slot emphasized the need for patience as the young midfielder readjusts to full match fitness.
Elliott sustained the injury while on duty with England’s Under-21 team in September, which ruled him out of action for over two months. During the recent international break, he rejoined training at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre, initially working with the U21 squad before transitioning to sessions with first-team players not involved in international fixtures. This Friday, he is set to train with the entire senior squad for the first time since his injury.
Slot was cautious about rushing Elliott back into action. While Sunday’s Premier League match against Southampton could offer a chance for him to feature, even briefly, Slot stressed the importance of allowing Elliott sufficient time to regain his sharpness and confidence.
“It’s always positive to have all players available, and Harvey’s injury was a significant setback for both him and the team,” Slot said during his pre-match press conference. “He’s been sidelined for around three months, and while it’s fantastic to see him back on the pitch, we have to manage his return carefully.”
Drawing a comparison, Slot mentioned Ibrahima Konaté’s recent struggles after an extended break from competitive football.
“Take Ibou Konaté as an example. He didn’t play at the end of last season, missed the Euros, and was out for several months. His first game back, against Manchester United in pre-season, wasn’t his best, which is entirely normal,” Slot explained. “This applies to Harvey as well. Training with the team is one thing, but performing at your peak in matches is another.”
Slot underlined that Elliott’s recovery and reintegration would be a gradual process.
“We must allow him the time he needs to return to his usual level. There’s no rush, especially given the demanding schedule we’re facing over the next few months.”
Liverpool’s upcoming fixtures present a daunting challenge, with a busy slate of high-stakes matches. After Southampton, the Reds are set to face Real Madrid and Manchester City in quick succession—two games that could shape their season. Slot hinted that Elliott’s involvement in these matches would likely be limited as he works his way back to full fitness.
“It’s a demanding period, not just because of the number of games but also the quality of the opposition,” Slot noted. “Harvey will get his minutes, but we need to be mindful of the transition. Fortunately, we have players like Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai who can rotate in those advanced midfield roles.”
The Southampton match might provide an opportunity for Elliott to make a brief return, possibly from the bench. However, Slot’s measured approach suggests he is unlikely to take unnecessary risks with a player of Elliott’s potential. Instead, the focus remains on ensuring the midfielder’s long-term fitness and readiness for a challenging season ahead.
With Liverpool entering a critical phase of the campaign, Slot’s careful management of Elliott’s recovery underscores the importance of balancing squad depth and individual fitness. The 20-year-old’s return is a welcome boost for a team looking to navigate both the Premier League and European competitions with success.
Slot’s cautious optimism reflects his commitment to supporting Elliott’s gradual reintegration into top-level football. For Liverpool fans, the sight of the talented midfielder back on the pitch—whether against Southampton or in the weeks ahead—will undoubtedly be a moment to savor.
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