Everton manager David Moyes has delivered his verdict on Leeds United man Jack Harrison as he prepares to reunite with his former player in the opening round of the Premier League season.
Jack Harrison finds himself back at Elland Road, two full seasons after he last appeared for Leeds in the year they were relegated from the Premier League.
One of the few remaining members of the squad assembled by Marcelo Bielsa, he spent two years on loan at Everton before returning to Leeds this summer.
Harrison was booed by Leeds fans during the friendly against AC Milan and now has a tense relationship with the club’s fanbase as he looks set to feature under Daniel Farke this season, with Leeds still searching for a winger to replace former loanee Manor Solomon.
Now, his former manager, David Moyes, has delivered his verdict on Harrison, as he prepares to face him in the first game of the Premier League season.
Jack Harrison of Leeds United looks on during the pre-season friendly match vs Manchester United.
Photo by Linnea Rheborg/Getty Images
David Moyes delivers verdict on Jack Harrison
Speaking in his weekly press conference ahead of Everton’s clash with Leeds, Moyes was asked why he had not elected to turn Harrison’s loan into a permanent transfer after two years on Merseyside.
Moyes did not give an outright explanation for his decision, electing instead to praise Harrison’s contribution during his time with the club. Moyes said: “Jack was great for us and did lots of good things.
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“But obviously, he was a Leeds United player. It’ll be great to see Jack. He’s a great boy and we really enjoyed having him.”
Everton have invested heavily this summer, completing an eye-catching deal to bring Jack Grealish to the club alongside former Chelsea man Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.
Whilst Harrison is not expected to start the game on Monday night, he is likely to take his place in the Leeds squad, given Farke’s scarce options on the wing.
Good performances can help Harrison win over Leeds United fans
Speaking in the press conference in which he hinted that Dominic Calvert-Lewin could feature against his former club, Farke also spoke highly of Harrison and claimed he has already won over the Leeds players and staff.
Whilst he is currently public enemy number one at Elland Road, there are several examples in recent years of players who have won over the Leeds fans after a rocky period.
Jack Harrison playing for Leeds United.
Photo by Tim Clayton/Getty Images
When Leeds were relegated, Georgino Rutter was given a frosty reception after his limited role in the survival battle. Wilfred Gnonto also received extreme hostility that season after requesting a move which never materialised and refusing to play.
However, both won over the Leeds crowd with their displays and became firm fan favourites again. If Harrison lets his performances do the talking, he can finish off the boos that greeted him at the Aviva Stadium.