Campbell fumes over Patrick Bamford controversy at Leeds United – ‘it left a lot to be desired’
Kevin Campbell has slammed Patrick Bamford for his actions in Leeds United’s loss to Arsenal on Sunday.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Gunners and Everton striker “nearly got away with one” when contesting with Gabriel Magalhaes.
Referee Chris Kavanagh, with the help of his linesman, awarded Leeds a penalty after Bamford and Gabriel clashed inside the 18-yard box.
The Arsenal defender was also shown a straight red card.
However, on the advice of VAR official Paul Tierney both decisions were overturned.
Mikel Arteta’s side held on for a 1-0 win at Elland Road.
When asked by Football Insider for his assessment of the controversial incident on Sunday, Campbell said:“The order of the day for Leeds was to try and unsettle the Arsenal defence.
“Bamford was brought on at half time for that exact reason. They needed him to be physical and to go to war with [William] Saliba and Gabriel.
“He nearly got away with one. If there was no VAR, Arsenal would have faced another penalty and been a man light.
“The referee dealt with it right in the end. The linesman left a lot to be desired, to be honest.
“This is what VAR is supposed to be for though. It is supposed to get these decisions right. I think in the end the decisions were right.”
Saka scored the only goal of the game at Elland Road.
Jesse March’s side are 15th in the Premier League table.
In other news, Kieran Maguire has claimed Leeds United will no longer be “sold short” in talks after behind-the-scenes reveal.