Harvey Elliott: “It’s just about winning, not how we win” | OneFootball

Second-Half Resurgence Seals Crucial Win for Reds

Liverpool extended their lead at the Premier League summit with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Southampton at St Mary’s, recovering from a first-half setback to claim three vital points. Will Smallbone’s goal on the brink of half-time had given the hosts a surprise advantage, but Arne Slot’s side responded emphatically after the break.

Darwin Núñez restored parity shortly after the restart before Mohamed Salah converted a penalty to put the visitors ahead. The Egyptian talisman would later add a second from the spot to seal the win, pushing Liverpool 16 points clear of Arsenal, who still hold two games in hand.

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Elliott’s Impact from the Bench

Harvey Elliott was among three substitutions introduced at the interval, and the midfielder played a key role in Liverpool’s resurgence. Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com, the 20-year-old acknowledged the performance was not at the level expected but stressed the importance of securing maximum points.

“It wasn’t our best performance, we know that and I think everyone knows that, but it’s three points and that’s all we can do really.

“It’s just about winning, not how we win. Sometimes you have to win dirty and today was one of them days. We caused ourselves problems but at the end of the day it’s three points and it keeps the momentum high.”

Liverpool’s ability to grind out results in challenging circumstances has been a hallmark of their title charge, and Elliott underlined the mentality required to maintain that momentum.

“I think we know that’s what winners do really: when times are hard, what do you do? How can you come up with something to win the game? Luckily this squad is full of them players.

“We all dig deep and fight as much as we can to get three points and today was one of them, with the fans behind us as well. I think in the second half we came out fighting and we wanted to turn the game around and that’s exactly what we’ve done.”

Focus Shifts to Champions League and Wembley

With the Premier League title race intensifying, Liverpool’s attention quickly turns to European and domestic cup competitions. Paris Saint-Germain visit Anfield on Tuesday for the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie, with the Reds holding a 1-0 advantage after Elliott’s late winner in the first leg.

Just days later, Slot’s men will travel to Wembley to face Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final, marking a defining period in their season. Elliott, reflecting on the schedule, described the upcoming matches as make-or-break moments.

Photo: IMAGO

“I think the best possible way to describe it is four finals, really: PSG away, really, really tough game, today was a really tough game, then again on Tuesday another tough game and then the final on the weekend.

“So, we just need to make sure that energy-wise we’re still there. We’re still fighting, we’re still hungry to achieve things this season, although it’s a very tough period.

“But I think now more than ever it will show the team’s desire and attitude and I think we’re all there. We all want to do the very best we can this season and as I said, this part of the season is a massive part.

“We just need to keep going out and sticking to the game plan and making sure we win.”

Liverpool’s ability to navigate this testing run of fixtures could define their campaign. With Elliott and his teammates determined to continue their winning form, the coming weeks will be pivotal in shaping their pursuit of silverware.