Are Leeds fans being forced to accept Jack Harrison again? It may be working
Jack Harrison has cut an unpopular figure at Leeds United since returning from his two-year loan spell with Everton.
Leeds supporters booed Harrison in their most recent pre-season match with AC Milan, which ended in a 1-1 draw in Dublin on Saturday.
Given his standing among some of the Elland Road faithful, it would have seemed unfathomable for him to feature this season.
However, it appears that fans may well have to accept the winger in Yorkshire again ahead of the new campaign under Daniel Farke.
Why Leeds United supporters have been booing Harrison
When Leeds were relegated from the Premier League, Harrison was expected to help the Yorkshire club make an instant return, but instead, he left at the first attempt.
While on loan with the Toffees, there was further controversy after comments made by his mother during their Premier League clash with Burnley in 2023.
As she celebrated her son’s side defeating the Clarets in a 2-0 victory, an Everton supporter urged the 28-year-old not to go back to the Whites.
She replied: “[expletive] hope not.”
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 2023/24 | 36 | 4 | 3 |
| 2024/25 | 38 | 1 | 1 |
While these incidents have swayed some Leeds supporters against him, recent comments by Farke suggest he may be staying.
Read more: When did Leeds fan rage begin over Jack Harrison ahead of Premier League opener vs Everton
What Farke said after Leeds’ draw with AC Milan
Harrison came on as a late substitute against the Serie A giants, with some fans cheering him amongst the boos.
The winger received a negative reception when Leeds took on Manchester United in July, meaning some appear to be warming to him.
After the Elland Road club’s draw with AC Milan, Farke was asked about Harrison and whether he is in his plans for the Premier League.
“Jack has all the chances (to win back the fans). Our supporters don’t need my message. This will be a natural thing once he delivers good performances,” he told Mail Sport’s Adaam Patel (9 August).
The German’s strong words suggest that the 28-year-old will be given opportunities to shine this season.
However, as Farke stated, it is with performances that the winger must prove himself to the Elland Road faithful.
What is Farke’s state of play with wingers after Igor Paixao snub?
Harrison’s future with Leeds grew uncertain amid the Peacocks’ pursuit of left winger Paixao.
However, the Brazilian opted to move to Marseille, leaving the Englishman as one of Farke’s primary options on the left, along with Largie Ramazani.
Since Paixao’s snub, the Peacocks are no closer to landing a winger, meaning Harrison is primed to make an impact.
- Harrison has been cheered after receiving boos
- The Peacocks have failed to land a left winger
- The Premier League season is under a week away
Of course, there is plenty of time left in the transfer window, meaning the Whites could land another left winger.
However, as it stands, it appears that supporters may have to get used to seeing Harrison in a Leeds shirt.
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