Archie Gray has made a wonderful start to the 23-24 season after being given the platform to shine by Daniel Farke in a Leeds United shirt – and Jamie Redknapp’s 2022 prediction is finally becoming true.
Gray, 17, has started all seven of our matches in league and cup – making his debut in our first outing, the 2-2 draw with Cardiff City. He has even played in numerous roles, deeper in midfield and as a 10.
In the summer of 2022, Gray was touted to break into the senior Leeds side under Jesse Marsch. He was a regular in pre-season, catching the eye during our trip of Australia. But he suffered an injury.
That injury, and a couple of other niggles, prevented him from making any progress. But he finished the season well with the 21’s and England’s U17 side. Now, he is a key player in Farke’s Leeds United side.
Redknapp picked Gray as the one to watch and touted him to become a future England star – before the 22-23 season started. The Sky Sports pundit said he is one of the best young players he has ever seen.
“I don’t know if he’s ready, but he’s the best young midfield player I’ve seen in years. I’ve watched him closely. Archie Gray. He’ll be 17 this year. He is going to be a future England star,” Redknapp told 90min.
Gray makes wonderful Leeds start, Redknapp prediction now true
What a talent we have on our hands. The history, the heritage, the playing style, his aggression – he is the perfect Leeds player. That, but with added technique and actual footballing quality. A real sensation.
There is no doubt that big Premier League clubs will be watching but if Leeds can convince him to stay at Elland Road for the next couple of years – we have time to match his ambition, and gain promotion.
Gray has remained at Thorp Arch for the next fortnight despite being called-up by England’s U19 side for the first time. It is having started seven games so far – in order to give the midfielder a needed rest.
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