Arne Slot handed a chance to a few of his fringe players when Liverpool traveled to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
Slot explained before kick off that he had included Federico Chiesa on Liverpool’s bench predominantly so he could secure an appearance to earn a Premier League winners medal.
And in truth, Liverpool played like a team who had already won the league.
Slot changed his midfield dramatically and it told in west London — Ryan Gravenberch was missed and the absence of Alexis Mac Allister’s class was also evident from the off.
And if the Liverpool manager was assessing his squad for next season then big changes are needed, even if Slot’s team have been brilliant this term.
Liverpool need to sell Harvey Elliott
In terms of the opportunities afforded by Slot, Harvey Elliott was one of those who got a rare start in midfield, a 22-year-old who’s played a bit part role this season.
Elliott’s highlight was arguably his goal away to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, but even that was from a short cameo off the bench.
And in truth, it doesn’t seem as if there’s an obvious role for the former Fulham youngster in Slot’s team.
In fact, Fulham are interested in re-signing Elliott, and it might be time for Liverpool to cash-in and replace the England U21 international with a player better suited to Slot’s plans.
Elliott clearly has a lot of talent but he isn’t particularly well suited to any starting role in the middle, nor is he ever going to replace Salah on the right.
Elliott wasn’t any worse than those around him wearing red at Stamford Bridge, but he certainly didn’t take his chance either.
Richard Hughes could raise vital funds with Harvey Elliott sale
It’s been reported that Liverpool might ask for around £40m for Elliott were they to sell this summer.
Newcastle United were linked with Elliott in recent months — a player who Eddie Howe is thought to appreciate at St James’ Park.
And it might now be time for the Slot to make the difficult decision to sell Elliott, even if he may go on to flourish elsewhere.
Liverpool are targeting a new striker and it’s become fairly obvious where Slot’s team can upgrade this summer.
Liverpool need to sign Milos Kerkez as soon as possible, a deal that many believe to be well advanced.
It’s an important summer for Richard Huges and his team, and selling someone like Elliott could actually raise crucial funds.
