Liverpool midfielder Fabinho has backed teammate Harvey Elliott to make a big impact for the team when he returns from injury.

The teenager damaged ligaments in his ankle during a win over Leeds United in September in what looked like a hugely concerning injury for one of England’s emerging talents.

Prior to that, the 18-year-old had started three of Liverpool’s four Premier League games, including a heavyweight clash with Chelsea at Anfield.

Manager Jurgen Klopp has recently revealed that Elliott is close to returning to team training and, given the relatively paucity of forward options without Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, could yet make a big impact.

While it remains unclear as to when the former Fulham youngster will return, Fabinho said: ““We are really happy for him because we always see him in the training ground and in the dressing room, and he always has a smile on his face.

“So it is not an easy moment for him after his injury but he is always working hard and doing everything to be back in the best shape possible. So it will be really good to have him back. He is someone who can do good things for the team as well.

“Hopefully he will be back soon and helping us.”