Harvey Elliott’s difficult spell at Valencia has taken another frustrating turn, but Liverpool’s on-loan midfielder has received some unexpected backing from his own manager.
Javier Aguirre did not hold back after Elliott was sent off during Valencia’s painful 2-1 defeat to Villarreal, describing the dismissal as “absurd” and “ridiculous” while taking responsibility for the situation himself.
And the Valencia manager’s reaction tells you just how frustrated he was with what unfolded at Mestalla.
Liverpool supporters will have been watching closely as Elliott continues to struggle for regular minutes in Spain. The 23-year-old moved to Valencia in search of a fresh start, but Saturday’s events were the last thing he needed.
Aguirre refuses to blame Elliott
Valencia looked to be heading towards a draw after Pepelu’s first-half penalty was cancelled out by Alex Freeman’s equaliser.
Villarreal had already been reduced to ten men when Elliott, introduced from the bench, received two yellow cards in quick succession late in the game.
His dismissal left both sides with ten players, and the match turned into a nightmare for Valencia when Georges Mikautadze scored a stoppage-time winner.
But Aguirre was far from impressed with the decision to send Elliott off.
Speaking after the game, the Valencia manager said:
“Elliott’s sending off is ABSURD… RIDICULOUS. I’ve already let him know that. It’s not his fault, it’s my fault for putting out the players I do. I decide who and how they play. I’ll talk to him.”
Aguirre also expressed his frustration that Elliott barely speaks Spanish, questioning what the midfielder could have said to the referee to warrant such a dismissal.
It was a remarkable show of support for a player who has found opportunities difficult to come by since arriving in Spain.
The manager was clearly furious with the circumstances, but his willingness to shoulder the responsibility could be important for Elliott at a time when his confidence needs rebuilding.
Another setback for Liverpool’s forgotten man
It is difficult not to feel some sympathy for Elliott.
There was a time when Liverpool supporters were excited about what he could become at Anfield. He has talent, creativity and an eye for a decisive pass, while his performances for England Under-21s demonstrated what he can offer when given responsibility.
Yet his career has stalled over the past couple of seasons.
After struggling for opportunities at Liverpool, his loan spell at Aston Villa failed to provide the fresh start he needed. His move to Valencia was supposed to offer another chance to play regularly, rebuild his confidence and remind everyone of his ability.
Instead, he has struggled to establish himself in the starting eleven, and this red card only adds to his problems.
There is no denying that Elliott needs to make the most of whatever opportunities come his way. Even if the dismissal was harsh, he cannot afford to keep collecting setbacks when he is trying to convince a new manager that he deserves more playing time.
But it would be wrong to suggest his Valencia career is already over.
Aguirre’s comments suggest he still has the manager’s support, and that could be crucial as Elliott attempts to get back on track.
What does this mean for Liverpool?
Liverpool will undoubtedly want to see Elliott playing regular football, especially after a frustrating period in which his development has been interrupted by limited minutes.
The purpose of the loan was to give him an opportunity to get his career moving again. Sitting on the bench and then being sent off in a crucial match is hardly the progress anyone wanted.
There is still time for things to change, but Elliott needs a run of games in which he can show his quality rather than constantly having to fight his way back into contention.
For me, the most encouraging part of this story is Aguirre’s response. Managers do not always publicly defend players after disappointing incidents, particularly when results are going against them.
By taking responsibility himself, Aguirre has at least made it clear that he is not simply throwing Elliott under the bus.
Now the midfielder needs to respond on the pitch.
Liverpool supporters know he has ability. What he needs is consistency, confidence and a manager willing to give him the opportunity to show it.
Saturday was another painful setback, but hopefully it does not define the rest of his season.
Elliott needs a break, and perhaps Aguirre’s public backing is the first step towards getting his Valencia career back on track.
Jamie – (The Kopite View)
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