Jack Harrison has often been a source of frustration for Leeds United supporters this season, but he stepped up as one of the team’s outstanding players in the 1-0 win over Derby County at Pride Park.
Harrison, a former teammate of Frank Lampard at New York City FC, was responsible for the game’s defining moment of real quality.
It was his picture-perfect pass, sent in beyond three Derby defenders, that found Kemar Roofe in space. The striker’s finish was ultimately the difference between the two teams in the first leg of the play-off semi-final.
“I think that Jack's pass was very, very good. It was decisive in this game. Jack Harrison has made a good performance today and this action, his pass, strengthens his performance,” said Bielsa, speaking after the match.
“He was very generous, he made many efforts like all of the team. He finished the game playing as a number nine and he had physical presence that helped us.”
That pass from Harrison!
— Leeds United (@LUFC) May 11, 2019
That finish from Roofe! pic.twitter.com/nQSc1svMfQ
The Manchester City loanee has often been withdrawn at half time by his manager. United’s performance in his absence in the second half against Aston Villa, with Tyler Roberts playing wide in his place, provided a compelling case for a late-season switch-up.
But Harrison looks to have locked down his spot on the left side of midfield. He showed what he’s capable of with the match-winning assist, which even drew comparisons to his parent club’s Kevin De Bruyne. A cheeky backheel in the build-up made it even sweeter.
Last month, after he scored the winning goal against Sheffield Wednesday, the winger was coy when asked about where he sees himself next year. But first, he has an opportunity to write himself into Leeds United folklore if he can provide similar contributions in the remaining play-off games.
