Leeds United were recently honoured to receive a historic piece of matchworn memorabilia, loaned to the club by the family of former winger Harry Duggan.
The shirt, worn in 1927, is that of the Irish Free State, a predecessor to the FAI, with whom Duggan made five appearances and scored one goal.
The Dublin-born outside-right also represented the Ireland national football team which, at the time, included players from both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Duggan joined Leeds from Dublin junior team Richmond United and made his debut against Liverpool at Anfield in 1926.
Instrumental in the promotion winning side of 1931/32, he was handed the captain’s armband and would remain with the club until 1936, when he moved to Newport County.
After retiring from football following the outbreak of war, Duggan returned to Leeds and lived within sight of Elland Road until passing away in 1968.
The shirt was kindly loaned to the club by Harry’s son Paddy, alongside other members of the Duggan family, who were delighted to be able to help fans learn about a pioneer of both Leeds United and Irish football.
“It is an absolute piece of history, isn’t it?” said Paddy. “This shirt is nearly a hundred years old. This is something to be proud of for our kids and our grandkids and the grandkids to come.
“Harry Duggan’s name is on the internationals board inside and I think there is only two of them that played for both Irish teams. Everything about my dad and the family is just fantastic.”
Grandson Martin Duggan added: “Leeds United has always been part of the family, so it is nice that something of our grandad’s is coming back and staying in the stadium. Some of the gear they played in, the shorts…
“There are photos of them training in jumpers and all sorts. So, I think it just helps people to understand where football has come from and where it has got to now. It is a massive thing that he played for Leeds.”
Everyone at Leeds United would like to thank the Duggan family for the loan of the shirt which will be soon on display at Elland Road.
