The fact Elliott’s attitude has impressed and that he is well liked by his team-mates is also in his favour.
Tyrone Mings made fun of Elliott’s whereabouts on social media after Salzburg last week, posting a popular meme involving Ian Wright and a former teacher he thought had passed away.
Few would have blamed Elliott for sulking at Bodymoor Heath training ground but he has remained positive and worked hard despite a season that has not gone as he would have hoped or expected.
Arriving at Villa after winning a second European Championship with England Under-21s, it has been other young players such as Elliot Anderson and Alex Scott who have earned senior call-ups this season.
His sound fitness level, despite his relative inactivity this season, was demonstrated when he lasted the full game against Salzburg – his first appearance for almost four months.
There has been talk of a move to the MLS in the United States, whose window is open until the end of March – but that is not a consideration for the playmaker.
Elliott is instead likely to remain at Villa, wondering if Emery will be forced to play him as a result of a busy fixture list and a depleted squad.
Liverpool‘s stance is that it is Villa’s issue to solve. They have budgeted for the transfer fee and having Elliott’s wages covered.
The prospect of him returning to Anfield remains remote and while manager Arne Slot has been criticised for what has been perceived as a cold approach to a loaned player struggling for game time, Liverpool feel they effectively sold Elliott last summer.
“First of all, it was pleasing to see him on the pitch last week,” said Slot. “He is a promising player and to see him back on the pitch is pleasing. His situation is clear, he is an Aston Villa player at this moment.”
Those are hardly the words of a Liverpool manager keen to see a player back in his squad.
Meanwhile in Birmingham, if Elliott features in three more games for Villa, he will join a club whose manager he knows does not rate him highly.
Elliott might be one of England’s most talented young players, but where he starts next season could scarcely be more in doubt.
