Leeds United gave a first-team debut to the latest member of the Gray family in their pre-season friendly victory over Harrogate Town.
Entering the fray in the 76th minute for Georginio Rutter, Harry Gray quickly became a nuisance for the Harrogate defence and soon had his first effort on goal in a white shirt – but fired it over the crossbar.
At just 15-years-old, Gray was the youngest player on the pitch by a distance, and posted on his Instagram page at full-time saying this was the “start of the journey” for him at Elland Road [19 July].
The striker’s “unreal feeling” was no doubt boosted by the support of his team-mates on the pitch and his elder brother Archie, who commented a message of support after recently leaving the club himself.
Leeds United will hope Harry Gray surpasses brother Archie
While Archie Gray made his own bow for the club’s first-team on the pre-season tour of 2022, it was a year before he was blooded in a competitive match, beginning the Championship campaign last August.
The midfielder proved to be well worth the wait, going on to feature in all but three of United’s matches last season, but after the Whites failed to achieve promotion, he was sold to Tottenham for £40million [Graham Smyth, 1 July].
Following the younger Gray brother’s debut, United fans will have every digit crossed that they can enjoy Harry’s performances in the white shirt for much longer than the single season produced by Archie.
The latter would undoubtedly still be a fixture at Elland Road had Daniel Farke’s side secured a return to the Premier League last season, and as such, the upcoming campaign is vitally important for the club.
Being promoted to, and finally establishing themselves in the Premier League could create an environment perfect for producing young talent, and Harry Gray will be keen to make that breakthrough as soon as he possibly can.