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Leeds United hopeful Harry Gray explains why he has joined Rotherham United on loan
Gray has spoken about his move to Rotherham and why he “pushed” for the loan switch
Harry Gray says he “pushed” for his loan move to Rotherham United having felt there was little more to gain than staying and playing at academy level.
The 17-year-old, who has 11 goals from 13 academy games at Leeds United this season, has joined the Millers for the rest of the League One season, in what is the first move of his senior career.
Gray has not played a competitive senior match since his Leeds cameo debut against Stoke City back in April on the day United earned promotion back to the Premier League, albeit he has made two matchday squads this campaign.
Gray says Rotherham boss Matt Hamshaw has promised him opportunities for minutes, which is something that sold the move to the teenager. He could make his debut for his loan club in Saturday’s clash with Stockport County.
Speaking to club media upon signing, Gray said: “[I was] pushing for a loan move and when I heard that I could go to Rotherham it was an opportunity that excited me.
My dad mentioned them a few times, it’s always nice to hear a club like that are watching you. For me, I didn’t feel like I’d gain anything else in youth football anymore, I felt that I was ready to play in men’s football.”
Rotherham sit five points away from safety inside the bottom four relegation places in League One with 22 matches left to play. Gray says the task ahead only whets his appetite.
“With not doing great at the minute it’s a challenge to make them better but I believe I’m more than good enough to do that and I’m looking forward to it,” said Gray, who signed his first professional deal at Leeds back in October.
That’s exactly what I need, exactly what I came here for – minutes [and] an opportunity to play in men’s football and score goals. That’s all I want to do.
“The main selling point [from the manager] is he trusts me and there’s going to be minutes and opportunities to play and score goals. It’s just an opportunity to prove to people I can do it on the men’s level.”
Harry Gray, the 17-year-old Leeds United forward, has joined Rotherham United on loan until the end of the season. Gray, who’s been making waves in Leeds’ youth academy, pushed for the move to get regular playing time and develop his skills ¹ ² ³.
The young striker made his senior debut for Leeds in a friendly against Harrogate Town in 2024 and later featured in a Championship match against Stoke City. With limited opportunities in Leeds’ first team, Gray sought a loan move to gain experience and confidence ¹ ⁴.
Rotherham United, currently struggling in League One, will be Gray’s new home. Leeds boss Daniel Farke believes the proximity to Elland Road will allow the club to monitor Gray’s progress closely. Gray’s family, including his brother Archie, a Tottenham Hotspur midfielder, and legendary uncle Eddie Gray, a Leeds United great, likely supported the decision ¹ ³.
Leeds fans are divided about the move, with some questioning whether Rotherham’s relegation battle is the best environment for Gray’s development. However, Farke emphasizes the importance of patience and experience for young strikers, citing examples like Robert Lewandowski and Harry Kane
