Daniel Farke has shared what he told Archie Gray about how his first Leeds United goal would go in.
Gray ended up scoring the winner for Leeds on Friday night as they completed an incredible late comeback victory over Leicester City, defeating the Foxes 3-1.
The 17-year-old had been handed a tough evening up against Leicester winger Stephy Mavididi, particularly in the second half, and so was actually moved to the other side for the first time in his career.
Connor Roberts was the man brought onto replace Junior Firpo and he certainly made a huge difference, with his goal getting things started for Leeds.
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Farke has explained why he made those changes at full-back, as well as what he told Gray before his ‘fairytale’ goal.
Farke speaks on Gray first goal
He said: “It’s a fairytale today. Such a game, such an atmosphere with your first goal. I told him his first goal would be three times deflected. Archie has never played at LB in his career. Connor is just a few weeks with us. He has strength going forward. Mavididi was on fire and we let Connor defend him.
“I got the feeling Connor is involved in goals and end product or assists. Felt he could help to turn the game. Archie with his right foot on the left could link with Cree. The players delivered on the pitch. Many compliments to Archie, Connor and my whole team.”
Gray scoring his first goal was always going to be an incredible moment for supporters and a winner in front of the Kop against the league leaders couldn’t have been a better way to do so.
It has been said that Gray’s goal has actually gone down as an own goal, but there is no way anyone can take that moment away from him. It was on target anyway, too.
Farke’s changes during the second half ultimately made a massive difference to turning the tide, and keeping Gray on was a big decision that proved to be inspired in the end.
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