Stewart Downing thinks Liverpool have an incredible 18-year-old in their ranks

Sun 27 March 2022 7:15, UK

Liverpool talent Harvey Elliott has been praised by Stewart Downing, who said the Reds gem has “definitely got the ability” to become a star.

Downing returned to Anfield on Saturday as Liverpool Legends took on Barcelona Legends in a charity match.

The 37-year-old made 97 appearances for Liverpool between 2011 and 2013, winning the League Cup in 2012.

Downing also played for Blackburn last season, where Elliott spent the campaign on loan.

The 18-year-old was sensational for Rovers, registering seven goals and 11 assists from 41 Championship outings.

This season, Elliott is in the Liverpool first team and has made 10 appearances for Jurgen Klopp’s side.

The England Under-21 star also spent some time on the sidelines due to an ankle injury.

However, he recovered ahead of schedule and has hit the ground running since returning.

“You’ve got to give him credit”

Downing, speaking to the Liverpool ahead of the Legends game, sung Elliott’s praises.

“He found himself playing in the middle,” he said.

“He didn’t do that a lot for us at Blackburn, maybe once or twice.

“But he took the position at the start of the season, playing ahead of some big players.

“You can see his ability for a young player, he’s quite mature for his age; the way he plays and his positioning.

“He’s not a young player who runs everywhere and is undisciplined, he’s quite mature for his years.

“Going to Liverpool and being coached by Klopp before he went on loan is massive for him.

“He’s playing with world-class players every day, the standard will be unbelievable really.

“Barring injury at the start, he would have had a massive run in the team and you’ve got to give him credit for that.

“He’s definitely got the ability.”