Leeds United hero Archie Gray is now a European champion and has been praised for his ‘touch of class’ at the final whistle of Tottenham Hotspur’s win over Manchester United.
The Europa League final was a great watch for Leeds United fans on Wednesday night as fierce rivals Manchester United put in a terrible display and were defeated 1-0 by Tottenham Hotspur.
Luke Shaw’s own goal on the edge of half time was the only thing that split the sides as Ange Postecoglou fulfilled his promise to win a trophy in his second season.
For Archie Gray, he has won the first piece of silverware in his young career in his first campaign at Spurs.
The young midfielder signed for Tottenham last summer after his release clause was triggered and his brother, Harry Gray, sent a cheeky dig in Harry Maguire’s direction at the full-time whistle.
Archie, however, was a bit more magnanimous on the pitch and has earned praise for being the only Tottenham player to shake hands and console the defeated Man United players.
Archie Gray shows ‘touch of class’ to Manchester United
Gray would have been well within his rights to immediately join his teammates and celebrate a historic triumph.
The victory was Spurs’ first trophy win in 17 years and their first European success since 1984 but, instead he first showed great sportsmanship to his opponents.
Speaking on commentary duty for 5 Live, Ian Dennis reported from Bilbao: “At the moment, you’ve got every Tottenham player celebrating in front of Tottenham supporters, with the exception of young Archie Gray, who is showing maturity and a great deal of grace beyond his tender years.
“For someone who is only 18 years of age, he is the only white shirt going up to every single Manchester United player to offer his consoling words.
“He’s gone through everybody. Ruben Amorim, Bruno Fernandes, every single one, has Archie Gray.
“I just think that is a touch of class from the young man.”
How Archie Gray played in the Europa League final
Though they may have left Elland Road, Leeds fans have loved watching their former players shine in Europe this season.
Raphinha was sublime in Barcelona’s run to the Champions League semi-finals, scoring 13 goals and setting up another nine along the way.
Leeds would have pocketed an extra £10m if Barcelona won the competition but Leeds fans just marvelled in disbelief that Raphinha ever played for the club.
Gray’s success is sure to warm the hearts of Leeds supporters, too. The youngster only came on in the final minute of the 90, alongside another former White in Djed Spence.
The pair then had to navigate a nerve-shredding seven minutes of added time, which they did so comfortably as Gray helped dig in and secure the win.
