Liverpool star reveals the biggest shock of his career

Harvey Elliott is back at Liverpool with a strong resolve to win back his spot following a campaign where he was largely overlooked at Aston Villa. The appointment of Andoni Iraola as head coach is creating a surprising new chapter for the English playmaker.

Harvey Elliott now stands at a crossroads, with a chance to revive his career at Liverpool after a disappointing season wearing the Aston Villa shirt. The 23-year-old midfielder admits that the lack of playing time at Villa Park tested him mentally more than anything else.

Last season, Elliott moved to Aston Villa on a season-long loan hoping to secure more regular first-team opportunities. The deal between the two clubs included a mandatory purchase clause if the English player reached a certain number of appearances.

However, Elliott only made a total of nine appearances across all competitions for Aston Villa, as the club chose not to trigger the buy option. This was a very modest figure for a player once regarded as one of England's most promising young talents.

Nevertheless, the change in Liverpool's coaching staff is opening a new door. Elliott has featured in the first two preseason friendlies under new head coach Andoni Iraola and sees this as the perfect moment to start afresh.

"I'm here and I can call this a second chance. Especially with a new head coach and coaching staff at the club, I have another opportunity to make an impression and hopefully earn their trust,"Elliott shared.

The English midfielder insists he holds no grudge against Aston Villa, despite how last season played out. He believes the difficult experience at Villa Park has helped him grow as a person.

"I wish Aston Villa all the best. It's unfortunate that things turned out that way, but it's another lesson in my career. Now I'm back and trying to earn a place in the starting eleven or at least make the matchday squad,"Elliott said.

The player, who joined Liverpool in 2019, also admitted that constantly being left out was one of the biggest mental challenges he has ever faced.

"Mentally, it was a very tough period and also a learning experience. I wouldn't wish the same on any other player because that feeling is far from pleasant,"Elliott stated.

One positive note for Elliott is that he was still part of Aston Villa's Europa League-winning campaign. The English midfielder sees that trophy as a reward after a turbulent season and a milestone that helped him close the previous chapter.

"I got through that period and still managed to achieve something at the end of the season. It was another historic moment for the club, and being part of that journey was still a fantastic experience,"Elliott emphasized.

Liverpool finished only fifth in the Premier League last season and are in need of fresh options in midfield. If he makes the most of the preseason period, Elliott could turn this return into a turning point for his future.

The Merseyside club will begin their Premier League campaign with an away trip to Newcastle United on August 23.