What could Scotland do for a striker considered one of the top talents in his age group across Europe? Dominic Matteo suggests they might have a chance with Harry Gray of Leeds United, or at least try to convince him.
Currently, Harry, who is 15, seems likely to follow his brother Archie, who is set for England recognition after completing a £40 million transfer to Spurs from Leeds this summer. This situation is particularly frustrating for Scots, including national manager Steve Clarke, given that both Gray brothers come from a prominent footballing family with deep Scottish roots. This includes their grandfather Frank, a European Cup winner with Nottingham Forest, great uncle Eddie, celebrated as one of Leeds’ finest players, and their father Andy, who earned two caps for Scotland.
Matteo, a former Scotland player with six caps, hopes that Harry might choose to represent Scotland instead of England, where he was born. When asked if their grandfather Frank, who earned 32 caps for Scotland, might already be influencing the young striker, Matteo responded, “I would have thought so.”
Having once played for Leeds United and scoring a notable Champions League goal against AC Milan in 2000, Matteo now works for the club’s TV channel. He has heard a lot about Harry Gray, who made his first-team debut in a friendly against Harrogate Town earlier this summer. His brother Archie also made his competitive Leeds debut at 17 at the start of last season.
Matteo recently mentioned Harry while promoting a gambling harm prevention initiative at Queen’s Park. He praised Harry’s potential, noting that while he hasn’t seen him play live, feedback from players suggests he’s a standout talent. “Have you seen Harry? He is the next big thing,” Matteo said. He added that Harry, who is recovering from a preseason injury, is considered one of the best young footballers in Europe at his age and is a natural goalscorer, which could benefit both Leeds and Scotland.
Matteo, who is close to Harry’s great uncle Eddie, a Leeds United legend with nearly 600 appearances, mentioned that Eddie speaks highly of Harry’s abilities and also praises Archie. Matteo trusts Eddie’s judgment, given his extensive experience and knowledge of football talent.