Liverpool’s star has been sent back home as Arne Slot faces an injury setback during the international break

Liverpool, who have started the new season unbeaten under Arne Slot, are now facing a potential injury concern during the first international break of the campaign.

Harvey Elliott has been forced to withdraw from the England U21 squad, marking a possible injury setback for Liverpool. Elliott is one of five players to have left the squad due to injury. Although he initially joined the squad at St George’s Park, he was sent back to Liverpool for “further medical assessment.”

In addition to Elliott, Ipswich’s Omari Hutchinson, Aston Villa’s Jaden Philogene, and Wigan’s Sam Tickle have also withdrawn due to injuries. Adam Wharton stayed with Crystal Palace after experiencing a groin issue.

In their place, Marseille’s Jonathan Rowe, West Brom’s Tom Fellows, and Brentford’s Matthew Cox have been called up for the upcoming matches against Northern Ireland and Austria.

Elliott has had only one appearance for Liverpool this season, a brief substitute appearance in their 2-0 victory over Brentford. He is expected to have more chances as the schedule intensifies following the international break.

Liverpool will hope that Elliott’s injury is not serious, as he aims to make an impact this season under Slot. Reflecting on his experience with the new manager, Elliott stated, “The style of play is a lot different. It’s more about in possession now.” He added, “The players are excited, we play certain patterns, it is a good buzz around the team and the lads are excited to apply it in games. It’s a fresh start for everyone. I don’t think it is nerves but excitement. I think we [will learn it] very quickly to be honest.”

Elliott observed, “We have seen in the last game there were certain moments where the amazing football was free-flowing. It’s pre-season and it is only the first couple of games and we need to keep trusting what they are teaching us. We need to keep going if things don’t work out [immediately] because it is all new.”

He emphasized, “It is down to me to work as hard as I can, perform in training and games, so it is on myself. There’s no one I could blame apart from me. I just wanted to come back early to get to grips with the new style of play and meet the coaching staff and gaffer for the first time.”

Elliott concluded, “It gives me a chance to get up and running in pre-season. I feel like I’ve done that. I just need to keep going and building.”