'I understand' - Jack Harrison addresses Everton loan moves in farewell message to Leeds United fans
Jack Harrison has issued a farewell message for Leeds United fans - and acknowledged his controversial Everton loan moves
Jack Harrison has acknowledged his controversial decision to depart on loan for Everton in his farewell message to Leeds United supporters.
The 29-year-old has officially cut ties with Leeds, ending an eight-year association with the West Yorkshire club to join Major League Soccer outfit New England Revolution. He made 219 appearances across all competitions for the Whites and was part of Marcelo Bielsa’s Championship title-winning squad.
His relationship with supporters was somewhat soured in the summer of 2023, when he left on loan for Everton in the aftermath of Leeds’ relegation to the Championship. The winger ended up spending both of Leeds’ two seasons back in the second tier on loan at Goodison Park.
He was reintegrated by Leeds boss Daniel Farke last summer, but did not receive the warmest of welcomes back from the Elland Road faithful. Harrison struggled to make an impact and was loaned to Fiorentina in January, spending his final months as a Leeds player in Italy.
Jack Harrison’s farewell message
After making a permanent move across the pond, Harrison has shared a farewell message acknowledging the time he spent with the Toffees.
Posting on Instagram, he said: “It’s hard to put into words what Leeds United has meant to me. When I arrived in 2018, I joined a club with an incredible history and supporters who demanded everything from the players who wore the shirt. I could never have imagined the journey we were about to go on together.
“Leeds became my home and gave me memories I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life. Some of the greatest moments of my career came in Leeds colours.
“The last couple of years haven’t been straightforward. Going out on loan wasn’t an easy decision, and I understand that many supporters found it difficult to accept but football sometimes takes you in unexpected directions, one thing that never changed was my respect for Leeds United.
“I always wanted this club to succeed, and seeing Leeds back where it belongs in the Premier League makes me proud.Leeds United isn’t just another club to me. It helped to shape me as a footballer, as a person, and gave me memories and connections I’ll cherish forever.
“I’ll always look back with immense pride at what we achieved together. Thank you for everything.I’m excited for the next chapter, but until we meet again... Marching On Together.”
USA return for Jack Harrison
Harrison has committed to New England Revolution until 2030, taking up a designated player spot in the club’s squad.
The move has marked a return to the USA for Harrison, who started his professional career with New York City a decade ago.
Manchester City took the winger back to his native England, later loaning him out to Leeds for three consecutive seasons before sanctioning a sale.