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Unai Emery says there are more factors behind Harvey Elliott’s lack of game time than simply Emi Buendia’s resurgence.

Elliott, who joined Villa on an initial loan deal, has made only five appearances for the club since arriving on deadline day.

If the 22-year-old plays another five games, Villa will be obligated to pay Liverpool £35 million to sign him permanently as part of the agreement.

Elliott was unable to feature against his parent club when Villa travelled to Anfield at the start of the month, but he was also left out of both matchday squads to face Manchester City and Bournemouth.

Emery has previously said he views Elliott’s best position as a No. 10, but he pointed to the number of options in that role as the reason his minutes have been limited.

Buendia,

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