Graham Smyth makes a big prediction about Archie Gray and Leeds United after he leaves for Tottenham

Having spent 11 years in the academy and coming from a family with a huge legacy at Elland Road, Gray was the one player Leeds supporters really didn’t want to lose this summer.

In their official statement announcing his exit, Leeds described themselves as heartbroken that they had to let him go at such an early stage in his career.

However, with none of Leeds’ other salable assets attracting anywhere near as much interest as the 18-year-old, it was he who the club had to let go.

Smyth makes bold predictions about Gray and Leeds

Losing their best academy players is something Leeds fans have had to get used to since the turn of the century.

James Milner’s move to Newcastle United in 2004 is one that really mirrors Gray, leaving at the age of 18 due to financial issues behind the scenes. If Gray continues to enjoy the career Milner is having, he will be happy.

Others from more recent times include Lewis Cook, Charlie Taylor and Kalvin Phillips, the latter the only one who stayed long enough to leave a lasting legacy at Leeds.

Three of the four players have been linked with a return to Elland Road during their careers, the most recent of which would have been Phillips had Leeds been promoted.

And speaking on the latest episode of the Inside Elland Road Podcast, journalist Smyth believes there is a real possibility Gray could one day return to play for Leeds again, potentially alongside his brother.

He said: “I also don’t think this is the last time we’ll see Gray on the back of a Leeds shirt, and I’m not just talking about his brother Harry, I’m talking about Archie himself. He would still love to come back and play at Leeds and is young enough for that to be a possibility going forward.

“And I’m not even talking about the loan from Spurs because I don’t think it’s going to go that way. I would be surprised if he found himself on loan in the championship.

“I think he will play in the Premier League, but somewhere down the line, as Byram did, that kind of scenario would really appeal to Archie Gray. He still dreams of playing alongside his brother and if that could happen at Leeds he would be delighted I’m sure.

“I don’t think the door is completely closed for Archie Gray and Leeds and he’s only 18. His career could last another 16/17 seasons if he’s lucky and takes care of himself.”

Gray’s parting message shows he still loves Leeds

Despite reports that Gray’s camp were left frustrated by Leeds’ handling of the situation, Gray could not hide his gratitude to everyone he met at the club during his 11 years.

It’s clear how loved he was by everyone he worked with and played alongside at Elland Road and if he were ever to return it would undoubtedly be an emotional affair.

He said: “I can’t thank everyone at Leeds United enough over the last 11 years, from all the managers I’ve had since I first came at seven years old, to the whole coaching staff from now.

“I have enjoyed every second of my time at the club and have so many memories to last a lifetime, from watching in the stands to playing on the pitch. I’d also like to say a huge thank you to all the managers I’ve had but especially Daniel Farke for believing in me this year and giving me the opportunity to play and teaching me so much about the game .

“I’m very thankful for him and the entire coaching staff. Along the way I’ve made great lifelong friends and I’m thankful for every teammate I’ve been with since I was seven years old to last season’s teammates.

“And to the fans you guys are amazing and I can’t thank you enough for the support you’ve given me and hopefully Harry over the next few years. We will cross paths again.”

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