On This Day: Eddie Gray answers Jimmy Armfield's call with landmark Leeds United hat-trick

WHITES legend Eddie Gray scored his sole Leeds United hat-trick on this day back in 1978.
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Gray, who had just turned 30, netted a fine treble as Jimmy Armfield's Whites recorded a 5-1 victory against Leicester City at Elland Road.

Gray's brother Frank was also on the scoresheet in addition to Ray Hankin but it was regular Whites winger Eddie who stole the show having been pushed upfront by Armfield.

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The Whites boss made the move as he looked to change United's fortunes following the 2-0 loss at Everton and 2-1 victory at home to Wolves.

TREBLE TONIC: For Leeds United winger Eddie Gray, pictured above in action in 1978. Photo by Varleys.TREBLE TONIC: For Leeds United winger Eddie Gray, pictured above in action in 1978. Photo by Varleys.
TREBLE TONIC: For Leeds United winger Eddie Gray, pictured above in action in 1978. Photo by Varleys.

Armfield was then forced to miss seeing his plan in action as the Whites boss was suffering from flu and only a gate of 21,145 was in attendance - the second lowest at Elland Road that season.

But Armfield's plan worked the oracle against a struggling Foxes side and those present were left witnessing a Whites treat.

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Thank you Laura Collins