Luke Harris: The Story So Far

For Part Three of our Academy series, fulhamfc.com caught up with midfielder Luke Harris who has attracted plenty of attention after a fantastic season.

When did you first figure out that football was what you wanted to focus on?

I realised it at a very young age actually, maybe like four or five? My dad had me kicking a ball from pretty much the moment I could run! I wasn’t scouted until I was about nine in a tournament in Guernsey, but before that I played for a local team in Jersey. 

Did you have any idols growing up?

When I was younger I used to love watching Cristiano Ronaldo. On and off the pitch he’s a real icon in my opinion. In terms of my own game, I like to base myself off Frank Lampard because he was also a midfielder who loved to score goals, like myself.

What’s your current living situation here in London?

I currently live in digs with Adrion Pajaziti, which is nice. The woman we live with, Alisson, is lovely and she’s been doing this for over 20 years with young Academy players so she knows what she’s doing.

You scored eight and assisted five for the Under-18s last season while aged just 16. How enjoyable did you find that campaign?

It was a really good season. We had a great bunch of lads, everybody worked so hard and we had Steve Wigley who helped us all out so much. I was obviously younger than most of the other players but I’ve always embraced a challenge, so I really enjoyed it and feel I flourished.

Stepping up to the Under-18s was a big change compared to at the younger age groups, though. The football is much quicker and you’re put in a league format so there’s points to play for which just adds to the competitive nature.

Your performances have earned you several international call-ups. Captaining the Under-17s must have been memorable?

It’s really special. It’s something for my dad as well who loves Wales. It feels different to club football because you’re playing with lads you see less regularly. I personally love going away on international duty.

You’ve caught the attention of fans and First Team staff this season. It’s been brilliant for you, hasn’t it?

I think it’s been a great season and I’ve loved every minute. I’ve worked so hard every day and I’m really enjoying my football, which always has an impact.

I’ve found myself in goalscoring positions quite a lot and I think that’s just an instinct. I’d say I’m good at judging where the ball is going to end up and making sure I get in good areas.

Do you keep yourself up to date with what fans are saying on social media?

My older brother always sends certain tweets into the family WhatsApp group chat, so we often laugh at some of the funny comments posted. It’s really nice to see that the fans have an interest in what I’m doing at Academy level.

I don’t really go out and look for comments, it’s my brother who makes me aware really. I’m not too fussed about negative stuff on social media. My job is to stay focused and perform on the pitch.

What are some of your favourite highlights from the season?

Winning the league with the Under-23s, and travelling with the First Team for a game. I’ve scored a lot of goals this season which is what I aim to do. The Newcastle and Burnley games where I scored three and four definitely stand out.

With the Newcastle game, even I couldn’t believe that I scored three in 11 minutes. I remember thinking, ‘is this actually happening?’ Ironically that was against the team I support as well! I did Alan Shearer’s famous celebration for one of them which I thought was quite funny at the time.

You recently travelled with the First Team for the game against Sheffield United, how cool was that experience?

It was great because that’s what I’ve been working towards for years now, pretty much the whole time I’ve been at Fulham. I wasn’t on the bench but it was great to travel with them and see what it’s like. I really enjoyed all of it.

When and how did you find out you were travelling?

I had a meeting with Marco the day before the game, which was when he told me. He said that he enjoyed watching me play and feels that I suit his style of play.

How did travelling with the First Team differ to travelling with the 18s or 23s? 

Well the first obvious thing is that everyone is much older! There are also loads more staff involved and in the changing room it’s all a lot more intense, with lots of talking and shouting as every player tries to get themselves fired up.

Were there any players in particular who helped make you feel welcome and comfortable?

Alfie Mawson and Joe Bryan were brilliant, even though they didn’t actually travel on the day. Alfie spoke to me for about half an hour the day before which was really nice. He’s a great guy.

Our Academy has developed some top players in the past, Fabio being the latest one. Does watching them give you extra motivation to break into the senior squad like they did?

For sure. That’s where I want to be within the next two years. Playing in the First Team, week in, week out, and progressing every week.

What are you looking to achieve next season?

I’d love to gain more experience with the First Team and hopefully I can get a few minutes here and there. That’s what I want but most importantly, I need to knuckle down and keep working as hard as I possibly can every day.