Club receives historic Irish Free State shirt
The shirt was worn by Harry Duggan in 1927.
The family of former winger Harry Duggan recently loaned Leeds United a historic piece of matchworn memorabilia, which the team was honored to receive.
The 1927 shirt was worn by the Irish Free State, which was the forerunner of the FAI and with whom Duggan played five games and scored one goal.
The outside-right, who was born in Dublin, also played for the Irish national football team, which at the time had players from both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Duggan made his debut at Anfield against Liverpool in 1926 after joining Leeds from the Dublin youth team Richmond United.
He played a key role in the 1931–1932 promotion-winning team, received the captain’s armband, and stayed with the team until 1936, when he relocated to Newport County.
Following the start of the war, Duggan retired from football and moved back to Leeds, where he stayed until his death in 1968, within sight of Elland Road.
Along with other Duggan family members, Harry’s son Paddy graciously loaned the shirt to the team. They were thrilled to be able to tell supporters about a Leeds United and Irish football pioneer.
“Isn’t it a true piece of history?” asked Paddy. This clothing is almost a century old. For our children, grandchildren, and future grandchildren, this is something to be proud of.
Only two of them, I believe, played for both Irish teams, and Harry Duggan’s name is shown on the internationals board inside. My dad and the family are amazing in every way.
Grandson “It’s good that something of our grandfathers is returning and remaining in the stadium because Leeds United has always been a part of the family,” Martin Duggan continued. The shorts and some of the equipment they used to play in
They can be seen training in jumpers and other outfits in pictures. In my opinion, it merely aids others in comprehending the origins and current state of football. The fact that he played for Leeds is enormous.
Leeds United would like to express their gratitude to the Duggan family for lending them the shirt, which will shortly be on display at Elland Road.
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