Leeds United’s 6-0 win over Stoke City allowed Daniel Farke the freedom to be flexible with his late substitutions and he handed 16-year-old Harry Gray his full professional debut.
Not many saw such a result on the horizon. All the pressure was on Leeds to secure a win and make it difficult for Sheffield United later on in the day, when Chris Wilder’s side went to Burnley needing a win.
Stoke meanwhile, came into the game after pretty much securing Championship safety. Five games unbeaten, picking up 11 points from a possible 15 and winning their last two games under Mark Robins.
And yet, Leeds took Stoke apart. Perhaps, the Stoke players were already on holiday but Leeds ran riot. Joel Piroe had gone 10 games without a goal, but netted four goals in the first half as Leeds lead 5-0.
Aaron Lennon drops verdict as Harry Gray makes Leeds debut
Junior Firpo also scored and Willy Gnonto scored a second-half header as Leeds cruised to a massive 6-0 win, taking Daniel Farke’s side to 94 points. Still on course to win 100 points between now and May 3.
It gave Farke the freedom late on to bring on 16-year-old Harry Gray for his professional debut, with Gray becoming the fifth member of the Gray family to play for Leeds after Archie, Frank, Eddie and dad Andy.
Gray is older than Aaron Lennon when Leeds’ youngest-ever player made his debut aged just 16 and 129 days back in August 2003. Lennon has shared how he was paid a fortune by Leeds as a 16-year-old.
The former Tottenham, Everton and Burnley winger reacted to Gray’s debut: “Nearly there nearly there big win!!! Also a massive congratulations to Harry Gray on making his debut today special special talent.”
Daniel Farke explains his decision to hand Harry Gray his debut
This is not the first time that the youngster has been recognised by Farke. Indeed, the German included Gray as one of six youngsters on the trip to Germany last summer, and he played in pre-season friendlies.
Farke has now handed debuts to youngsters Charlie Crew and Sam Chambers earlier in the season and now, he’s given Gray his first run out. Speaking after the win, Farke explained why he brought Gray on.
“The day was made for it. But there are no gifts. I don’t like to praise a young lad too much too early. We liked what we saw on the training pitch. He has earned his position in this squad with hard work.
“And his good performance in training. Let’s be careful not to praise him too much, impressive for a 16-year-old boy. Proud day for him and his family. Important to give him space to develop,” Farke added.
Gray will be hoping for more opportunities in the final two games of the season as Leeds host Bristol City and then go to Plymouth on the final day. Leeds will be hoping Harry can emulate older brother Archie.
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