Leeds United's Harry Gray bloodied on bruising Rotherham debut in 3-2 defeat at Stockport | OneFootball

Leeds United prospect Harry Gray endured a bruising League One introduction on his Rotherham United debut, as the Millers lost 3-2 at Stockport on Saturday.

The 17-year-old joined on loan for the rest of the season last week and was handed a first start at Edgeley Park, completing 90 minutes as Rotherham twice came from behind but were beaten.

“It feels like a lot of things are conspiring against us at the moment. It’s quite clear that some players are lacking in confidence and I understand that. That’s my job, to try and get it out of them,” said head coach Matt Hamshaw. He told the Yorkshire Post.

“We saw the difference that Sam Nombe made and I thought Harry was good, considering he’s 17. Harry’s got bloody knees, a scratched face and all the rest of it, but that’ll do him good.”

Gray could make his home debut later this week, with AFC Wimbledon due at the New York Stadium on Saturday. Rotherham remain three places and five points from safety, and have a game in hand on Blackpool in 20th.

Leeds want him exposed to senior football after outgrowing Under-21s, and Daniel Farke said last week it is a step-by-step first loan that should harden him against experienced professionals. He highlighted the value of physical tests and maturing in a tough environment while staying close to family and his parent club.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk