Downing: Harvey Elliott has fitted in so well here

Stewart Downing has paid tribute to Harvey Elliott as the on-loan youngster makes impressive progress at Blackburn Rovers.

The 17 year-old former Fulham junior made eight appearances in his first season for the Reds showing some promising signs but the decision was made by Jurgen Klopp that he needed some consistent minutes and he was sent to the Championship club.

Since the move, Elliott has won rave reviews for his impressive performances scoring four goals and contributing as many assists.

Speaking after the youngster produced a wonderful individual strike against Norwich earlier this month, Rovers manager Tony Mowbray said:

“Seeing him produce a goal like that really doesn’t surprise me. He’s a wonderful talent, he’s a brilliant individual to work with as well.

“Harvey has assets that (Rovers midfielder) Bradley Dack has that trust when he has the ball. It was a wonderful performance from Harvey.

“We’re delighted to be working with him and I hope that he’s enjoying his time here."

One player who has seen many things in his 19 year professional career is Downing and the former Middlesbrough, Liverpool and Aston Villa winger said (per the Mirror that Elliott has become one of the most important players.

"We have to be careful with him because he’s still very young, but he’s almost the go-to man for us at the moment, he’s playing well and getting goals.

“The manager’s probably trying to see whether he can rest him at some stage, but you have to play him at the minute.

“He’ll have ups and downs in his career, but he has that quality through a goal or an assist.

Just as important as showing talent is being able to fit into a certain team dynamic, but Downing said that he has been right at home with the group.

“He’s fitted in so well here, he’s got a good environment around him and the lads all really look after him and It’s important for him to just keep enjoying his football."

One of the most things that stands out to Downing is Eliiott’s maturity and general understanding of the game.

“I think the lads have spoken to each other and mentioned that you look back to when you were 17, you’re a bit a headless chicken, aren’t you?” 

“But Harvey’s game understanding, his quality, his knowledge of when to release the pass, even with his goal, he never panics.

“He has the finesse, the quality, but he’s also fitted into the group very well. He’s definitely got the quality, but he runs around and works hard as well.

“I think most would look at him and say ‘he’s good, he’s got the technical ability’, but he’s buying into everything, the pressing, the tracking back, he’s a real team player.”