Liverpool fans have given up on one player after his display against Brighton and say he MUST be sold in the summer

It was supposed to be a celebratory atmosphere for Liverpool supporters, a game where the pressure was off and the reigning Premier League champions could enjoy a free-flowing contest after securing the title weeks in advance. But what unfolded at the Amex Stadium on Monday night instead turned into a harsh reality check—particularly for one player who now finds himself in the crosshairs of frustrated Reds fans.

Liverpool suffered a surprising 3-2 defeat against Brighton, a result that may not have impacted their trophy haul, but certainly rattled the expectations surrounding squad depth and individual performance heading into a pivotal summer window. Arne Slot, keen to assess some of his fringe players, handed rare starts to those who have largely been watching from the sidelines this season. One of those players was 22-year-old midfielder Harvey Elliott.

At first glance, Elliott seemed poised to seize the opportunity. Within the opening ten minutes, the young Englishman latched onto a low cross from Conor Bradley and finished neatly to hand Liverpool an early lead. Moments later, he added an assist to his tally, feeding Dominik Szoboszlai for Liverpool’s second. For a player trying to prove himself, this was the perfect beginning—one that could have rewritten the narrative surrounding his limited minutes this season.

But football is a 90-minute game, and it was Elliott’s performance over the full course that has drawn the ire of supporters. Despite the early goal and assist, Elliott faded significantly as the match wore on. He struggled to track back, seemed sluggish off the ball, and allowed Brighton’s midfield to dominate during key spells. The drop in intensity and awareness did not go unnoticed, especially in a game where Liverpool’s complacency was already being questioned due to their off-pitch celebrations in Dubai and Ibiza earlier in the week.

Fans flooded social media platforms with criticism. On X (formerly Twitter), one supporter wrote bluntly: “This game is the perfect example of why Harvey Elliott will be sold this summer. Kid doesn’t have the athleticism needed to play in midfield for Liverpool.” Others were even less forgiving, calling his performance “lazy,” “half-hearted,” and “nowhere near the standards expected at Anfield.”

Another fan’s post captured the mood perfectly: “Harvey Elliott is a bright young footballer. But not at our levels. Sorry.” While such takes may appear harsh, they reflect a growing sentiment that Elliott may have reached a crossroads at Liverpool. For all his technical gifts and intelligent passing, questions remain about his physicality, pace, and defensive contributions—qualities essential for a central midfielder in a high-pressing side.

Elliott has made just over 800 minutes in 27 appearances under Slot this season, most of which came from the bench. While he has shown glimpses of promise, he hasn’t nailed down a consistent role in a midfield stacked with the likes of Alexis Mac Allister, Wataru Endō, Curtis Jones, and Dominik Szoboszlai. His lack of minutes, and the fan backlash from Monday night, have intensified speculation surrounding his future.

Wolves are said to be keen admirers, and a summer move could be on the cards. In a recent interview with Sky Sports, Elliott hinted at uncertainty regarding his long-term future. “It’s been hard with how much I’ve played. I’ve tried as hard as I could and whatever happens, happens. It’s about what’s best for my career,” he stated candidly. “I’m here at the moment and I’m focusing on the final game.”

That final game may well be his swan song in a Liverpool shirt. With the transfer window opening soon, Arne Slot and the Liverpool hierarchy are likely to make tough decisions about the squad’s composition. If Elliott does leave, it would mark the end of a promising but inconsistent chapter—one that began with enormous hype but has been clouded by injury setbacks and positional ambiguity.

There is no doubt Elliott has talent. His vision, technique, and flair are clear for all to see. But in a Liverpool system built around relentless energy, tactical discipline, and defensive intensity, his profile may not quite fit the mold. A move elsewhere—perhaps to a team where he can play higher up the pitch or in a more relaxed system—could unlock his full potential.

Regardless of where his next destination lies, Monday’s display has become a flashpoint for frustrated Liverpool fans. In a match that should have been a footnote to a glorious season, Harvey Elliott has instead become the subject of fierce debate—one that may force Liverpool to act decisively when the summer market opens.

For now, Elliott remains a Red. But if fan reactions are anything to go by, that status could change very soon.