Liverpool are being urged to recall Harvey Elliott from his loan at Aston Villa, as a former Reds player criticises the midfielder's lack of game time. David Thompson has advised the 22-year-old to return to Anfield this month, despite his loan deal reportedly containing no recall clause.
Elliott's move to Villa has not gone to plan, with the player making only a handful of appearances. Villa boss Unai Emery confirmed that the club decided 'months ago' not to sign Elliott permanently, and his last outing was a four-minute cameo against Feyenoord in October. Thompson believes Elliott should fight for his place at Liverpool rather than continue a failed loan spell.
However, any return would be complicated. FIFA regulations prevent Elliott from playing for a third club this season, and terminating the loan could have financial implications for both clubs. The only alternative would be a move to a league with a different calendar, such as MLS.
Meanwhile, Michael Owen has highlighted a growing reliance on Mohamed Salah, who is currently at the Africa Cup of Nations. Liverpool's tally of 30 goals this season is their lowest at this stage in a decade, and Owen feels the team lacks creativity without the Egyptian. He warned that selling Salah would leave Liverpool toothless in attack.
Salah's long-term future remains uncertain after a reported falling out with manager Arne Slot, though the issue appears to have been resolved for now. Owen noted that against Leeds, Liverpool lacked urgency and width, with substitutes struggling to find their positions. He concluded that the team lacks natural goalscorers beyond Salah.
