Rod Kewell

The Father

Dad's role was in the background
Much like his son, Rod Kewell is a private character. He resides in Sydney's West and doesn't seek out column inches on his personal contribution to Harry's career.

"What made Harry special were his parents," says Mandic. "The players that make it and make it big tend to have even-minded parents. They don't put too much pressure on the kids, if any. They allow their kids to find their own level and allow them to enjoy the game. Harry's Mum and Dad were exactly those sorts of parents.

"His first contract at Leeds is something his Dad did. His Dad had a lot of options in front of him because Harry was a very talented lad, but they went for Leeds. At that time they were a middle-range Premier League Club, but they had a lot of potential. "

Mandic believes that Rod Kewell is the most important person in Harry's career until the point he became a professional footballer.

"It was Rod's even-headed approach and calmness that still resonates with Harry now. Rod is just one of these guys who has a very strong, calm personality. People will tell you he can be volatile, but he is volatile because he wants to get a result. He is a shrewd operator and doesn't suffer fools whatsoever, he's very honest and hence Harry is the way he is. He is similar
to Harry."

Rod famous line to Harry was: "Little ones make big ones" when it came to money and to this day Harry takes that approach. "Rod's influence in many respects has made Harry what he is today - both as a human being and a footballer," added Mandic.

However David Lee had a different view of Harry's family affairs. "Harry's mum, sister and brother did all the work. His dad only came on the scene when he made it. Everyone thinks his dad got him there, but his mum and sister were the driving forces. They used to drive him to training three times a week from. Harry's mum was a great businesswoman and she was never fazed by clubs coming along  and offering to take him on. She'd always ring me and ask what I though and I'd always say, 'No, leave him where he is'".

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