The winger’s move to Goodison Park was complicated by a transfer saga that began in April (BBC Sport) when it became known that he had a condition added to a new contract he had signed at Elland Road until 2028 that allowed him to leave on loan should the team be demoted.
Everton used the clause, however Harrison switched when he was still sidelined with a hip injury. Prior to the international break, he made his Premier League debut in a 3-0 victory over Bournemouth, where he scored.
With my injury, it’s been a difficult time. Harrison told Everton’s official website on October 16 that while everyone at Leeds was fantastic with my rehabilitation, switching across can be challenging at times.
The personnel at this location have been excellent in helping me reach my current state of health, which may be a little better than I had anticipated. They deserve all the praise for it, as do the employees at Leeds and the coaching staff here for giving me the chance.
I’ve been putting a lot of effort into it, and they’ve given me the chance. I was incredibly appreciative of the opportunity to play against Bournemouth, and I intend to continue.
Difference maker
Undoubtedly, Everton’s unstable financial situation off the field limited the kind of deals they could reach during another challenging summer transfer season.
But it was a tremendous relief for Sean Dyche to learn that Harrison, along with a number of other Leeds players, had a clause in his contract that allowed him to leave on loan once Leeds was relegated to the Championship.
Regretfully, Harrison did not play well when he first arrived at Goodison Park. However, when healthy, he can be a true asset for this Everton team, as his ability to set up and score goals will be crucial as they want to move up the standings and escape a third straight relegation fight.
Having been accustomed to dealing with one medical team and now having to start working with another, it is not surprising that he encountered some difficulties, but perhaps the worst of his injury issues are behind him.
Harrison can be a vital member of this Everton team if he can maintain his fitness, and following his goal against Bournemouth, perhaps there will be many more.
