Harry Gray has put pen to paper on his first professional contract at Leeds United after turning 17 earlier this month, and he has a clear message for manager Daniel Farke.
LeedsUnited.News was told that a deal between Leeds and Gray had been agreed prior to his birthday and the club were simply waiting to announce it, despite interest from both Tottenham and Man City.
Morale was poor among Leeds fans after Saturday’s poor defeat to Burnley, and they needed something positive going into Friday night’s clash against West Ham. They got it with Gray’s announcement.
While the length of Gray’s “long-term” deal is unclear, the 17-year-old’s future is no longer a doubt or a concern. The youngster spoke to LUTV after signing on the dotted line, as the Gray dynasty continues.
Harry Gray and Anton Stach
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Harry Gray sends message to Daniel Farke after new Leeds deal
The fifth member of the Gray family to play for Leeds, Harry made his debut last season. He came on in a 6-0 win over Stoke City, with great uncle Eddie shedding tears in the Elland Road terraces as he ran on.
Moving forward, Gray is clearly the gem of the U21 side; there are high hopes for him. Having tasted the Elland Road crowd, Gray says he’s targeting a place in the first team and scoring Premier League goals.
Asked for his targets moving forward after putting pen to paper, Gray simply said: “To break into the first team and score goals in the Premier League. That’s it, really. It’s attainable, I definitely think I can do it.
“But it’s about when my chance comes, I’ve got to be able to take it and gain everyone’s trust,” Gray continued, in a clear message to Farke regarding a seat at the table when it comes to the Premier League.
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What Daniel Farke has said about Gray’s first-team chances
Daniel Farke is remaining patient with Gray. When asked about the attacker’s chances of breaking into the senior side, he reminded reporters of his record with younger players and even bringing brother Archie in.
He said that Gray will get his chance when the time is right, and he has spent more time training with the senior side at Thorp Arch: “I don’t want to sound arrogant, but I gave Harry his debut in the crunch time.
“If I were to back a manager to be brave enough to play a young player, to know what a young player needs, I’d pick me. Harry needs to train with the first team, experience physicality of the Premier League.
Daniel Farke applauds the Leeds support.
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“He needs game time with the U21s to stay in his rhythm and not to lose his striker instinct. He needs time and peace to develop. You will see him once he is prepared for Premier League games.”
Gray has endured a few weeks on the sidelines with a hip problem. In his pre-Burnley press conference, Farke said he’d be fit again this week. It will be interesting to see if he’s involved against West Ham.