Sunderland youngster Harrison Jones has revealed the 'sacrifice' that was made to ensure he achieved his dream of playing for his boyhood club.
Jones was handed a first start for the Black Cats on Saturday, selected in the midfield for the Championship clash against Swansea City at the Stadium of Light. The game ended in a 1-0 defeat, but even that couldn't take away the pride and delight Jones felt.
The Academy graduate has had a couple of appearances from the bench, but after being handed a full debut he thanked his family for everything they've done for him.
Jones was thrilled to get the call and enthused: “I’m really proud, I’ve worked hard for many years to get here. I’m really grateful for the opportunity. Obviously, it didn’t go how we wanted to but I’m proud that I was able to represent Sunderland.
“That feeling probably won’t sink in for a while. I’m just really proud every time I represent Sunderland, it’s my home club.”
A Sunderland fan, along with his family, the midfielder discussed how the people around him have supported his journey along the way to get to this point.
“I’m only here because of all my family’s hard work," he revealed. “I don’t live close although I am a Sunderland fan, so they’ve probably had to sacrifice as much as I have so I’m really grateful for that and I’m happy that they can see what they’ve helped me become so I’m happy for them as well.”
Playing in a midfield three of academy products with Dan Neil and Chris Rigg, the 20-year-old emphasised the importance of working hard on the training ground to get the chances in the team.
“If you play and train well, you’ll get opportunities which has been proven this season so I’ve just got to keep working hard and developing relationships on the pitch so that next time I can keep progressing. I loved every minute and I’m definitely hungry for more.”
Manager Regis Le Bris, who handed the midfielder his debut, hailed his contribution and hopes he can learn from the experience.
"I think he did well for his first start in the Championship," he said. "If you are not exposed to that level you can’t understand exactly what is required so it’s a good step for him.”