Harvey Elliott delivers England U21 reality check ahead of huge Euros final

Harvey Elliott’s brace sent England’s U21s into the final of the Euros and the Liverpool star has challenged his team-mates to retain their title come the final

England match-winner Harvey Elliott warned the job is not yet done after his double sent the holders into the Under 21s European Championship final.

Liverpool midfielder Elliott gave Lee Carsley’s side the lead just after the hour, then stepped up to score a stunning solo goal five minutes from time to book England’s place in Saturday’s final.

Despite his heroics in hauling his side into back-to-back finals, 22-year-old Elliott said England have one more hurdle to overcome if they want to mount a successful defence of their title.

“It was a really tough game but to win, bloody hell, it’s incredible,” said Elliott, who took his tournament tally to four goals in five games. “I can’t put it into words – another final.

“I know I keep saying it, but now we need to rest, recover and go again. It’s not over yet. Tonight was another amazing experience in tough conditions. The way the lads dug deep, I think we deserved to reach the final.”

READ MORE: England U21s march into Euros final as Harvey Elliott heroics down the NetherlandsREAD MORE: Arsenal get major Viktor Gyokeres transfer boost as Sporting ‘find replacement’

Elliott injured himself doing a knee slide for his opening goal but is expected to be fit for Saturday’s final in the same arena – Bratislava’s National Stadium.

“I don’t know what I’ve done with my knee, but it’s hurting,” said Elliott. “Hhopefully it’s nothing too silly. It was a silly decision from me, but it’s one of those things. You live in the moment, you do these things. The pitch was ridiculously dry, but that’s the price I’ve got to pay.

“It’s been really tough, preparation-wise. We had many players who had to drop out, for the Club World Cup and because of transfers. So we want to do it for everyone who can’t be here. It’s one last push.”

England Under-21s boss Carsley said: “Harvey has been outstanding. He’s one of many who stood up. They’re developing as a team and a squad.”

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.