It has been a testing first half to the season for Jack Harrison at Everton after the midfielder returned to Goodison Park for a second loan spell from Leeds United in the summer.
The 28-year-old was one of eight of players to leave Leeds in the summer of 2023 using Victor Orta’s loan clause. In the most-recent summer window, he was one of two players where that clause remained active.
It saw Rasmus Kristensen leave for Frankfurt, and Harrison rejoined Everton. Last season, Harrison did well for Everton as the winger had a hand in seven goals in 35 games under Sean Dyche despite some injuries.
This season, Harrison has failed to score or assists in 18 appearances. Despite that, Harrison continues to win starts under Dyche largely because of his willingness to work hard, a key part of Dyche’s tactics.
Sean Dyche admits Jack Harrison talks over Everton confidence
Harrison has now gone 10 months without a goal, last scoring against Tottenham in February. That is despite being handed some glorious, and crucial moments to score in the last few weeks for The Toffees.
A couple of sitters missed in the 4-0 win over Wolves was followed by a stunning chance to beat Chelsea. But he missed, prompting plenty of frustration – Everton fans called for Harrison’s loan to be cancelled.
Late on in Everton’s last game, a 1-1 draw against Man City, Harrison failed to take advantage of a late counter with his shot blocked. Dyche told the Liverpool Echo he’s spoken to Harrison about the issue.
“He just needs that belief to get that final moment. We’ve spoken to him about it, because he’s got real quality with either foot. It’s just finding that tiny little moment that’s so important of course,” Dyche said.
“I say it’s a tiny moment, but it is such an important thing, making the right decision at the right time. But he certainly has quality to do that and will search to do it even better,” he added, on Everton’s Harrison.
Where does Jack Harrison’s long-term future lie?
Harrison is contracted to Leeds until the summer of 2027, having signed a long-term deal towards the end of the 2022-23 campaign. It means that if Everton choose not to sign Harrison, he will return.
Having left Leeds twice to go on loan, it is unclear if the former Man City man has any kind of future at Elland Road. It would appear he probably doesn’t, but Graeme Bailey told LeedsUnited.News different.
He thinks that if Leeds do get promoted which is looking increasingly likely, then Harrison could stay at Leeds. Given his current lack of goals and assists, Everton will surely prefer to pursue other signings.
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