Harvey Elliott handed damning transfer verdict as Arne Slot confirms decision

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Harvey Elliott has been dealt a tough assessment of his season-long loan at Aston Villa, with Arne Slot confirming that the midfielder will return to Merseyside in the summerHarvey Elliott has struggled for game time during his season-long loan at Aston Villa(Image: 2026 CameraSport)Former Premier League striker Gabby Agbonlahor has called Harvey Elliott's season-long loan at Aston Villa a "disaster."Elliott's spell at the West Midlands club has fallen well short of expectations, with the move failing to deliver the increased game time initially anticipated. It comes as the Villa manager apologizes to Elliott over the "embarrassing" situation.READ MORE: Liverpool transfer news and rumors today LIVE: Bradley Barcola latest as Chelsea target Xabi AlonsoREAD MORE: Wataru Endo gets World Cup lifeline after surgery and Liverpool injury absenceWith the season not going how anybody planned for Elliott, particularly with the World Cup approaching, Agbonlahor says he has nothing but sympathy for the 23-year-old."The poor kid, mate," said Agbonlahor on talkSPORT.

"23 years of age, I've gone to an Aston Villa side, European football, exciting manager."He's thinking, 'This is my season to get on that plane for the World Cup.' It's been a disaster! I feel for Harvey Elliott, the player.

I assume he played more with us last season, and he went there for more time."Such a talented player, he did so well at U21 Euros. Not for me to answer, but it's always a pity when a player like that doesn't play a lot."He is contracted to us, so he will be with us at the start of next season."Slot may have benefited from having Elliott available this season, with his squad heavily impacted by injuries and frequent changes to the starting XI.