Harvey Elliott has said he would be ‘honoured’ to earn a senior England call-up after an impressive campaign for club and country.
The 21-year-old has made 44 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool this season, scoring three times and providing seven assists.
Elliott’s club form has coincided with a prolific run for England’s u-21 side in UEFA European u-21 Championship qualifying, with seven goals and four assists in just seven appearances for the Young Lions.
Those performances have sparked speculation that Elliott could receive a senior call-up in the summer and the midfielder has said he would be ‘honoured’ to step up into the England squad.
“I haven’t had any chats with him [Gareth Southgate]. But my main priority is Liverpool and if I put in the performances here, you never know what’s around the corner,” Elliott said at a press conference ahead of Liverpool’s Europa League tie with Atalanta.
“I’ve been with England U21’s and I’m always so happy to represent my country, that’s been massive for me.
“I’m focusing on Liverpool and putting in performances for the team. If I do get called up at the end of the season then I’ll be very happy and honoured, but for now I am focused on putting in performances for this club.”
Elliott has forged a reputation for influencing games off the bench for Liverpool this season and the midfielder opened up on how he prepares as a substitute. However, he said his desire is to earn a more regular role in Jurgen Klopp’s first-choice XI.
“It’s just about making sure I’m analysing the game and working out where I can exploit different teams.
“I look for areas I can get myself into and attack that way. But frankly, I want to be starting games. I want to be the player that’s walking out, not coming on.
“It doesn’t mean I’m not grateful, I’m always grateful for every opportunity in the shirt but it’s about kicking on and getting myself a starting place in that team and I’m working very hard to make that happen for myself.
“I know I’m still young but I’m not a kid, I’m a man, I’ve had to grow up quickly so I am taking that responsibility into my own hands. If that means knocking on the gaffer’s door then I’ll do it.
“But at the same time I know I need to be patient and wait my turn but when I get those chances, I will take them.”
