Leeds United boss Daniel Farke just made his stance on Jack Harrison very clear
Leeds United are on the brink of beginning their Premier League campaign under Daniel Farke, with the Whites taking on Everton at Elland Road on Monday, 18 August.
Although it is only the opening game of the season, its significance cannot be downplayed, with Leeds needing to make the most of their home advantage against teams that will likely be mid-table outfits come the end of the season.
New arrivals such as Lucas Perri and Gabriel Gudmundsson could make their debuts, as Farke’s new-look squad aims to battle against relegation.
However, a familiar face in Jack Harrison looks set to be involved within the squad for the upcoming campaign, with Farke making his stance on the winger very clear.
Farke praises ‘top player’ in Harrison
After spending the last two years on loan at Everton, Harrison is not the most popular figure at Elland Road.
Despite this and the hostile receptions the Englishman has received in pre-season, Farke seems determined to utilise Harrison next season.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of the Everton game on 15 August, Farke called Harrison “a top player.”
“Everyone always has a chance with good work and performances. Jack has definitely won all the players and staff back this pre-season.
“He has to win the supporters back, it’s up to him,” the Leeds manager said.
With Leeds still in the hunt for a new winger and Manor Solomon linked with a move back to West Yorkshire, it is unclear how frequently Harrison will feature for Leeds in the Premier League.
The 28-year-old has also filled in at left-back at times in pre-season, and Farke may feel that Harrison will be a useful utility man going forward.
Terrible decision from Farke
Harrison, who cost Leeds £11m in 2021, is coming off the back of a dreadful season at Everton and, after burning his bridges with the fanbase, is set to be reintegrated within the squad and handed a Premier League lifeline.
It is not the first time Farke has done this, with the German manager relying on Brenden Aaronson for lengthy spells of last season.
This also proved to be a poor decision, with Aaronson arguably being United’s worst outfield player across the entirety of last season.
The Elland Road faithful may just about be able to tolerate Farke using Harrison as cover, but if he starts week in, week out, then Leeds are set to be in for a long season.
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