Ian Wright has told his Wrighty’s House podcast that Javi Gracia is getting the best out of Leeds United star Jack Harrison after the no.11 scored his second goal in two games on Saturday – during a crucial 4-2 win over Wolves.
Harrison, 26, endured a tricky first half to the season. Starring in the first three League games with a goal and three assists, the Englishman failed to register a goal or an assist until the new year – in the 2-2 draw with West Ham.
January proved to be much more successful for Harrison – although, largely against lower-league opposition in the FA Cup. In five games in all competitions, he had a hand in five goals. Then, Leicester came calling. He almost left.
Undergoing a Leicester medical, Leeds pulled the plug on a deal. He might have been forgiven for going off the boil with his head all over the place after that. He did struggle, failing to score or assist in the next four League games.
Now, Gracia is in place. He’s given Harrison a leading role. On Saturday, he scored his fourth of 22-23. In Gracia’s four games, he has four involvements. Wright says Gracia is getting the best out of the ex-New York City ace.
“You look at Harrison, how he’s playing now. Four involvements in four games. In 21 games under Jesse Marsch I think he had three (it was five). He’s upped the ante with everybody. They are playing a lot better. Really energised.”
Wright says Gracia is getting the best out of Leeds star Harrison
Alan Shearer said following the win over Wolves that if Leeds are to stave off the threat of relegation come the end of the season – then Harrison will be key. If he plays the way he has done under Gracia, then he is absolutely right.
Also, keeping Harrison at Elland Road, tying him down to a new deal and stopping any chance of a repeat of the January deadline day saga that saw him undergo a Leicester medical – is massive. Harrison is pivotal for Leeds.
