Harvey Elliott faces same old Liverpool problem after Aston Villa debut

The midfielder made his Aston Villa debut against Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday

Harvey Elliott isn't anticipating an immediate place in Aston Villa's starting eleven and is embracing the battle for selection - exactly as he experienced at Liverpool. The 22-year-old made his Villa bow on Saturday, entering as a substitute during the second period of a goalless stalemate with Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Emi Buendia was withdrawn to make room for Elliott in the 71st minute, though Villa found themselves under pressure in the closing stages as Everton sought what would have been their third consecutive victory.

Having secured a point, Villa now shift focus to the Carabao Cup, with a journey to Brentford presenting a chance for Unai Emery's outfit to register their opening triumph and maiden goal of the season.

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Elliott might earn his inaugural start in claret and blue, already sensing he belongs within the squad following a fortnight's preparation under Emery.

"He's told me the ins and outs of where he wants me to be and play," Elliott said of the Villa boss. "I've been with them throughout the whole international break, so I've had a few weeks to integrate myself into the team, the style of play, and understand what's going on.

"Everyone around me so far at Aston Villa has been so welcoming - the way they've looked after me, from the teammates to the coaching staff and the fans as well. Everyone's made me feel very welcome and like one of their own instantly. I just really hope we can kick on from here. We've got a tough period coming up with two more away games, including the cup midweek, so it's going to be a busy period for us.

"It's a lot of travelling, but we need to keep fighting - especially for the fans - give them what they deserve, which is three points. We need to fight as much as we can for them, and I'm sure the results will start coming our way soon."

He added: "It's going to be very hard coming into a team with incredible players. There are players still out injured as well, like Amadou Onana and Boubacar Kamara. A few other lads, I think, got knocks today [vs. Everton].

"So there's quality all around the team, and it's going to be hard, but I like the process of having to work to get into a really good team. I face that challenge again with Villa. It's not going to be a walk in the park where I come in and be in the position. I need to fight for the badge and showcase what I can do on the pitch."

During his initial interview following his move to Villa, Elliott disclosed that Emery had left him thoroughly impressed during their discussions before he put pen to paper.

Despite currently being on loan, the midfielder is destined to make the switch permanent, with Villa having committed to a £35million obligation to purchase. "I think it's just his commitment to football, you know, and his energy, his passion," Elliott said about what makes Emery special.

"It's his detail as well, and the heart he has for all of us. The first time I ever spoke to him, I was blown away by the way he was and what he had to say about me.

"As the weeks have gone on, you see it more and more. He's a very loving figure; he's always looking out for you and making sure you're OK. He does the best he can to help you as a player.

"I think working under him is going to be the best thing for me, as long as he trusts me. That's all that matters. I want to put everything on the pitch for him and work as hard as I can for him."

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