Gray Dynasty: The DNA woven throughout Leeds' history | OneFootball

With Harry Gray signing his first professional contract at Leeds United, another chapter begins in one of English football’s most enduring family stories. The Gray name is woven deep into the fabric of Elland Road - a lineage that spans decades, generations, and unforgettable moments in white.

We take a look at the five Grays to have worn the Leeds United shirt throughout our history...

EDDIE GRAY - THE MAGICIAN OF ELLAND ROAD

“When Eddie Gray plays on snow, he doesn’t leave any footprints” - Don Revie

Eddie Gray is one of the most gifted and beloved players ever to wear the white of Leeds United. Joining the club as a teenager in 1965, he quickly became a key part of Don Revie’s legendary side that dominated English football in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Known for his balance, close control, and dazzling dribbling ability, Gray was a winger who could turn defenders inside out with ease. His flair and creativity added a touch of artistry to a team renowned for its discipline and determination.

During his time at Leeds, Gray helped the club achieve remarkable success, winning two First Division titles (1968–69 and 1973–74), the FA Cup in 1972, the League Cup in 1968, and two Inter-Cities Fairs Cups in 1968 and 1971. He also featured in several major finals, including the 1973 European Cup Winners’ Cup and the 1975 European Cup, underlining Leeds’ status as one of Europe’s elite sides. Gray’s influence on the pitch was undeniable, and his loyalty to the club—spanning over two decades as both player and coach—cemented his legendary status at Elland Road.

Appearances: 579 | Goals: 69

FRANK GRAY – FOLLOWING IN HIS BROTHER'S FOOTSTEPS

Eddie’s younger brother Frank Gray carried the family flag with pride during the 1970s. Frank began his professional career at Leeds United, joining the club as a youth player and making his senior debut in 1970 under Don Revie. A versatile and composed left-back, Gray quickly established himself in a team filled with international stars. His technical ability, calmness on the ball, and defensive awareness made him a valuable asset during one of the club’s most successful eras. Although initially used sparingly, he grew into a regular member of the side by the mid-1970s, demonstrating maturity beyond his years and contributing both defensively and in attack.

During his time at Elland Road, Gray helped Leeds achieve significant success, most notably winning the First Division title in the 1973-74 season, one of the club’s finest achievements under Revie. He also featured in major cup finals, including the 1973 European Cup Winners’ Cup Final and the 1975 European Cup Final, highlighting his role on the continental stage. After leaving for Nottingham Forest - where he added more silverware under Brian Clough - Gray later returned to Leeds for a second spell, further cementing his connection with the club. His time at Leeds is remembered for his consistency, professionalism, and contribution to one of the golden generations in the club’s history.

Appearances: 407 | Goals: 35

ANDY GRAY - A NEW GENERATION EMERGES

The next wave of the Gray dynasty arrived in the early 2000s with Andy Gray, Frank's son and Eddie’s nephew. Andy began his professional career with Leeds United, emerging from the club’s youth system and turning professional in 1995. A hardworking and determined forward, Gray impressed with his attitude and willingness to learn during a period when the club's attacking department was stacked with the likes of Tony Yeboah, Rod Wallace, Brian Deane and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.

A defining moment of Gray’s first spell came in 1996, when he featured in the League Cup Final against Aston Villa at Wembley. At just 18 years old, his inclusion in such a major occasion highlighted the trust Leeds’ management had in his ability and temperament. While the result didn’t go the club’s way, it was a proud moment for the young forward, representing his hometown team at Wembley. After spells at clubs including Nottingham Forest, Sheffield United, Sunderland and Burnley, Gray would return to Leeds United 15 years after his first stint, making 10 appearances under Neil Warnock before closing out his career at Bradford City.

Appearances: 39 | Goals: 1

ARCHIE GRAY - ACADEMY TO FIRST TEAM

Following in his dad’s (Andy’s) footsteps, Archie Gray rose through the Leeds United academy with remarkable speed, joining the club at under-9 level and quickly becoming one of its brightest prospects. His talent and composure on the ball stood out from a young age, earning him a place on the first-team bench for a Premier League match at just 15 years old - a clear sign of the club’s faith in his potential.

The 2023–24 campaign marked Gray’s true breakthrough. Making his senior debut in the Championship opener against Cardiff City, he went on to establish himself as a key player in Leeds’ promotion push, showcasing maturity and consistency far beyond his years. Featuring in over 50 matches across all competitions, Gray became a mainstay in Daniel Farke’s side and a fan favourite for his energy, intelligence, and fearless performances.

His outstanding season was capped with two major honours - EFL Championship Young Player of the Season and Leeds United’s Young Player of the Season - cementing his status as one of English football’s most exciting young talents. The young star would join Premier League side Tottenham in the summer of 2024, helping them to their first trophy in seventeen years - the UEFA Europa League.

Appearances: 52 | Goals: 0

HARRY GRAY - READY TO WRITE HIS OWN CHAPTER

With Harry Gray now penning his first professional deal, the family’s connection to Leeds United enters its fifth decade.

A product of Leeds United’s academy, Harry Gray joined the Under-18s at just 14 in 2023 and quickly rose through the ranks. After featuring in a pre-season friendly against Harrogate Town in July 2024, he continued to impress and was invited to train with the senior squad by March 2025, aged only 16.

Gray made his senior debut at Elland Road on 21 April 2025, coming on as a late substitute in a 6-0 Championship win over Stoke City. Just days later, he scored in the U21s’ 2-1 victory over Sutton United to secure the National League Cup, and was part of the first-team squad that clinched the 2024-25 EFL Championship title at Plymouth Argyle.