Former Leeds United and Sheffield Wednesday defender Tom Lees turned down Football League clubs to join Harrogate Town
Vastly-experienced defender Tom Lees says he turned down offers from the Football League to sign for his “local club.”
The former Leeds United and Sheffield Wednesday man was unveiled as Harrogate Town’s ninth new signing of the close season on Thursday evening.
His arrival at Wetherby Road represents something of a coup for the Sulphurites, who were relegated to the National League at the end of 2025/26, given that he played 33 times in League One for Peterborough United last term.
But, Lees says that he delighted to be part of Simon Weaver’s new-look squad, and to have the opportunity to play a part in trying to guide Town back to League Two at the first attempt.
“I’m really happy to be here and meet everybody, it's been a great day,” Lees said after signing on at the Marcy Fitness Stadium.
“I've had a few offers in the Football League, but after sitting down and talking with the club, there's an exciting couple of years in store here and this is the start of a good project.
“I've lived in this town for most of my life, this is my local club. It means a lot to me to be involved and hopefully have a positive impact on my local team.
“I've had loads of friends that have played for the club, I've known Josh Falkingham since I was six years old and just from living in the town and being local, I know a lot of the players, know a lot of the staff, a lot of people on and off the pitch and the coaching staff.
“I had a real connection as soon as I got talking about this this move. I wanted to be surrounded by like-minded, good people, and that's been proved today when I went into the club and had my first day in the building.”
The 35-year-old started his career at Leeds, making his Championship debut in August 2011 following impressive loan spells in League Two with Accrington and Bury.
Lees would go on to establish himself as a regular at Elland Road, appearing in more than 40 Championship games in each of his three senior seasons in West Yorkshire.
The defender would then make the switch to South Yorkshire and Sheffield Wednesday where he would play 249 times across seven seasons.
Four campaigns at Huddersfield followed, before Lees opted to spend the 2025/26 season with Peterborough, making 33 League One appearances for the Posh.
“We’re delighted to have Tom, he comes in with great experience and a CV that speaks for itself,” said Lloyd Kerry, Harrogate’s Head of Player Recruitment.
“He’s a big name and comes in having played 30-odd games in League One last season, so it’s a really big signing for us.
“He’s a proper leader so will come in and set the standards and guide some of the young lads.
“To play that many games at a top level, you have to be top professional and he’ll lead by example. You need leaders in the dressing room and in the team and Tom is definitely that.
“He organises, is dominant in the air, calm on the ball, is versatile enough to play across the back three and overall is an accomplished defender.”