United States of America will always be regarded as the place Jack Harrison’s life changed. Leeds United’s winger cannot help noticing where England’s next World Cup journey will be played out.
Harrison will be 29 when the Three Lions will, qualification permitting, head out to USA, Canada and Mexico for their next attempt at ending the decades of hurt. Football history would suggest Harrison will be at the peak of his powers when the next tournament comes around and he will need to be.
England have an embarrassment of riches in wide attacking areas. Jack Grealish played 86 minutes in Qatar, Marcus Rashford got only 140 despite scoring three goals and Raheem Sterling had only 149 from a possible 450.
READ MORE: Unseen Leeds United boon could have paved the way for the biggest plus of mid-season break
The former New York City FC winger retains faith in his own ability and can only back himself to put himself in the picture. During strong spells, his chance creation statistics have matched up with the very best English players in the Premier League across the past 12 months.
“It's really exciting, it's a big goal of mine and something I'm always pushing for,” he said. “Now in the back of my mind, I was already talking about 2026 in the US, like it's almost written for me to go there so I need to push myself and get there.
“That's where my head's at. In terms of stats and stuff, it just depends on how you look at it. Even towards the end of the season when a lot of people were saying I was playing bad, I was always creating chances, still right up there with the top of the English players as well.
“So it just depends on how you look at it, honestly. You can see the stats and take what you want from it, but for me, I'm just always trying to use it as a platform to keep pushing myself to improve in different areas.”
Harrison was missing from a United matchday squad in the Premier League for the first time this season in the last game. The 26-year-old finally succumbed to several muscle tears he had been dealing with, but returned to action in Elche last week.
READ NEXT:
Jesse Marsch's Leeds United options as Tyler Adams absence poses Manchester City question
Mateusz Klich facing Leeds United choice as MLS speculation continues
Adam Forshaw decision to be made as Leeds United midfielder faces uncertain future
Rodrigo points fingers at Leeds United problems dressing room is cracking down on
Leeds United left-back solution taking crucial advice from experienced dressing-room heads
