When Leeds United announced the loan of Harry Gray to Rotherham United, some fans had their concerns. The youngster had a lot of expectations even before the Premier League kicked off.
In the first few weeks of the season when the club could not find the back of the net, many wanted him to step into the starting lineup. Leeds eventually got better as a team as the season went on, and Gray spent most of his time playing among the U21s. In January, he reportedly pushed for a chance at first team football on loan at Rotherham United in League One.
Rotherham boss speaks on Leeds United star Harry Gray
The young striker has two league goals in eight appearances for the club so far, impressing in some games. Rotherham boss Matt Hamshaw has been speaking about Harry Gray and his start to life at the club, in an interview with The Athletic.
“There were a few eyebrows raised when a 17-year-old kid (came here),” he said.
“Leeds fans think a lot of him.
“I know there’s a lot of media hype around him and we must get 60 scout requests every week. He’s a big talent with a big future.
“I won’t say it’s a difficult position, but the fact he’s come in at this point speaks volumes about the kid. He could well have gone somewhere else, sat on the bench and not come on.
“You see how much it means to him at the end. I just spoke to him then about not going down to the floor at the end of a game, for example.
“They’re the little bits he just needs to learn, but that’s why Leeds have obviously entrusted us with his development.”
READ MORE: ‘It’s not going our way…’ – Leeds United gem Harry Gray opens up on loan move at Rotherham United
Leeds loanee has a great opportunity
Playing at Rotherham for half a season might not look great, but it is a huge opportunity for Harry Gray. It allows him to grow and develop, and more importantly, Leeds’ technical team can evaluate how ready he is for senior football. Staying at Elland Road to play with the U18s and U21s is good in the developmental years, but talented young players need a head start – and playing in League One is a perfect way to get that.
READ MORE: ‘I never really understood…’ – £7m star makes brutally honest Leeds United admission
