Following an impressive season on loan at Blackburn Rovers, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp saw Elliott playing a crucial role in his first eleven this term, handing him three starts on the trot in their opening four Premier League games.

 

The 18-year-old started in Liverpool’s 3-0 win away at Leeds on Sunday, but had to leave the pitch on a stretcher in the second half after suffering a horror ankle injury as a result of a tackle from Whites centre-back Struijk, who was given his marching orders.

 

 

Liverpool legend Aldridge revealed he is gutted for Elliott, who looked to be on track to become a key player under Klopp this season.

 

Aldridge does not see Struijk’s foul as intentional and added he is sad for him, as he was also upset at what happened to the Liverpool starlet.

 

 

“It was really sad to see Harvey Elliott’s injury at Elland Road”, Aldridge wrote in his Liverpool Echo column.

 

“Jurgen Klopp had high hopes for him and looked to be a key part of his plans.

 

 

“The challenge itself was clumsy but I wouldn’t say it was intentional.

 

“He had his eyes on the ball and it’s just really unfortunate.

 

“I’m absolutely gutted for Harvey and I’m sad for Pascal Struijk too.

 

“You could see he was really upset.

 

“I’ve been involved in games where people have tried to foul me and that was not one of those.

 

“It’s just one of those things you see in the game.

 

“It’s not like he’s gone over the top and it’s just really unfortunate.

 

“Like everyone else, I hope that Elliott can get back sooner rather than later.”

 

While Elliott is set for an extended spell on the sidelines after surgery, Leeds are yet to provided clarity on whether they will appeal against Struijk’s suspension.