Harvey Elliott accepts Unai Emery criticism – before being subbed at half-time

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Harvey Elliott showed maturity in accepting Unai Emery’s recent criticism as he returned to the Aston Villa lineup, before being substituted at half-time in a 3-1 win. Elliott’s start to life at Villa has not been straightforward, as though he scored their first goal of the season he has found himself out of starting contention.

“I listen to what he has to say and I try to apply it in my game. I knew myself in that game that some things were forced by myself and for me it’s an opportunity now to put it right, try to take what he’s said and put it into today’s game.” Unfortunately, Elliott was then substituted at half-time in his first Premier League start since joining Villa on an initial loan which will become permanent in the summer.

Explaining his decision, Emery said: “He needs to adapt in everything, but I changed him not because he was playing bad. “He has to continue working, preparing and adapting of us, understanding everything, then using our quality in his structure.” Elliott’s move to Villa will be made permanent once he makes 10 appearances for the club – he is currently on four – with a fee of £35 million to be paid next summer.