From NYCFC to Leeds United, Jack Harrison shines in EPL debut
By Daniel Garza
Jack Harrison scored Leeds United’s first goal of the Premier Leauge season
Former New York City FC player Jack Harrison has been one of the more successful Major League Soccer exports to excel in Europe. The 23-year-old made his debut as a Premier League player for Leeds United against Liverpool. His first match in the English top-flight went very well. He scored the first goal of the season for Leeds with a terrific finish.
The moment that Leeds supporters worldwide have WAITED for.
— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) September 12, 2020
Jack Harrison scores Leeds United's first PL goal since 2004! #MyPLMorning pic.twitter.com/cchs76irR8
Even though Leeds were unable to earn a point against the reigning EPL champions, it was a promising performance from them against one of the world’s top clubs. They appear to be ready to contest for a place in the top half of the table. Expect to see lots more of Harrison this season for Leeds. He has opened his goal account in the EPL and there could be more to come this season.
A reliable player
Manchester City have placed Harrison on loan for the third consecutive season with Leeds. He joined the Premier League giants in 2018 and was sent to Leeds on loan for the 2018/19 campaign.
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Harrison played a part in Leeds’ successful campaign last season as they earned promotion from the second division by winning the EFL Championship. The winger played in every single match of the Championship season with six goals and eight assists coming in 46 appearances.
He’s been a very reliable player for the newly-promoted side as he is capable of producing high-quality minutes in either the starting XI or as a substitute.
An NCAA and NYCFC success
Although it was a short career in the NCAA, Harrison did play a season for Wake Forest in 2015. He excelled for the Atlantic Coast Conference team and was a semifinalist for the MAC Hermann Trophy. He is certainly one of the most high-profile players to come out of the American collegiate system in recent memory.
After being drafted by NYCFC in 2016, Harrison became one of the best young players in the league. His 2017 campaign saw him produced 10 goals, which was enough to impress the Manchester City scouts as he signed with them after the conclusion of the season.
Related Story. NYCFC draw in frustrating game against D.C. United. light
Harrison has joined a growing number of MLS exports who have thrived in European leagues. The recent success players such as Tyler Adams and Alphonso Davies have had is encouraging. And now, Harrison is also displaying the MLS is capable of developing talent for the top leagues in the world. As the 2020/21 season continues, Harrison’s progress in the EPL will be one to follow.