Uani Emery explains Harvey Elliott’s limited role at Aston Villa | OneFootball

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has attributed Harvey Elliott’s (22) limited playing time to intense competition within his squad, as the on-loan midfielder continues to adapt to life in the Midlands.

Elliott joined Villa from Liverpool in the summer on a season-long loan, with an obligation to buy for £35m. However, the England Under-21 international has struggled to secure regular minutes, starting just two of his five appearances so far. He remained an unused substitute for the third consecutive match in Thursday’s Europa League defeat to Go Ahead Eagles.

Speaking after the match, Emery emphasised that Elliott’s integration into Villa’s system is still a work in progress. “Harvey is a No 10 in our structure,” the Spaniard explained. “He has played some matches, but still needs to adapt individually to the tasks we ask of him. His commitment and training are very good, but his performances have not yet been enough.”

Emery also pointed to the form of other attacking options as a factor. “We have other players who can play as a No 10 and they are performing well,” he added.

With Villa fighting on multiple fronts this season, Elliott will hope his chance to impress arrives sooner rather than later.

GFN | Finn Entwistle