On This Day in 1990, the American Earned a British Contract
John Harkes penned a contract with Sheffield Wednesday, an English second-division club, joining on loan from USSF through the season's end.
Following an injury to regular full-back Roland Nilsson, the club secured Harkes' services ahead of their Football League Cup clash with Swindon Town on Halloween.
After the 1990 World Cup, several Americans ventured to Europe. Multiple clubs expressed interest in Harkes, who underwent a trial at Blackburn Rovers before catching Wednesday's attention.
He made an immediate impact in Sheffield, netting five goals in six reserve team matches before earning promotion to the first team.
"It's been frustrating," Harkes told UPI regarding his trial period, "but at the same time, it's been a great learning experience. This team is at the top of the league and has great players. I knew I would have to take my time and break in."
After acquiring his British passport on Monday and finalizing his contract on Thursday, Harkes made his debut start in Friday's goalless draw against Swindon Town.
He cemented his place in the team, maintaining his position even after Nilsson's return from injury. Harkes went on to make 32 appearances across all competitions, scoring twice — with one strike earning recognition as English football's "Goal of the Season."
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