Liverpool ace Harvey Elliott has endured a frustrating season so far, with injuries disrupting his chances under Arne Slot.

One of his former coaches at QPR Scott Chickelday labelled Elliott ‘sensational’, with the midfielder having started out at Loftus Road before joining Fulham.

A move to Liverpool was then secured by Elliott in 2019, with the 21-year-old now on well over 100 Reds appearances.

But the Anfield ace has played just 33 minutes across four matches this season after suffering a foot injury in September.

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Elliott is in line to start against Southampton, in what would be his first start under Slot, having featured from the bench against Girona and Fulham.

Photo by Alex Caparros – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images

He has been a regular in the Liverpool matchday squad since the November international break, but that all-important start and chance to prove himself is now set to arrive.

When asked by the Liverpool website if he is ready for a start against Southampton, Elliott responded: “Absolutely.

Yeah, I do.

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“I feel fit, I feel 100 per cent, it’s just taking a bit of time – as it does after every injury.

I wasn’t really quite there as much as I thought in my head that I was and the coaching staff and the manager could see that, and I think it was a mature decision to keep me part of it but not throw me in as quick as possible and I feel like it’s helped me now.

“It’s built me up and I am hungrier than ever to get back out on the pitch and to help my team, to help the club, and I feel like now I am in a position where I feel 100 per cent again and now I’m just raring to go.”

A foot injury had been the issue for Elliott at Liverpool, who all things considered have not been forced to deal with too many injury problems this season.

But slight issues for certain players, along with suspensions, means the former Fulham man is very likely to get the nod from the start.

And although he is just 21, Elliott can now be considered a senior Anfield man, having made 123 appearances for the Reds, with 10 goals and 14 assists.

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Such experience will be crucial against a Southampton side with plenty to prove in front of their own fans, and for a youthful visiting team.

And after recent substitute appearances, Elliott has now discussed his need for match fitness as opposed to general fitness.

ClubAppearancesGoalsAssistsLiverpool1231014Blackburn42711Fulham300Harvey Elliott career stats

“It’s a completely different [type of] fitness,” he said.

“Nothing can compare to match fitness and I feel like that’s what I need and I’m sure I’ll get it.

“It’s just about me working as hard as I can now in training and proving to them that I am ready.

I’m just waiting for my opportunity now.”

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