‘Daniel Farke to axe useless Joel Piroe for Patrick Bamford’ – Fans react
Leeds United fans were extremely happy to welcome Patrick Bamford back to the pitch as Joel Piroe took a back seat against Middlesbrough.
With Dan James opening the scoring after just two minutes, Daniel Farke‘s side were holding on for the majority of the clash at the Riverside Stadium on Tuesday, 8 April.
Mistakes from the officials nearly cost the Whites all three points away from Elland Road, with Ao Tanaka and Bamford seeing goals ruled offside incorrectly, and allowing Michael Carrick’s side to remain within touching distance.
Despite a late onslaught from Boro, Leeds took an important step towards automatic promotion and Farke likely moved towards keeping his job at Leeds, with James’ single goal enough for three points.
Patrick Bamford getting back to full fitness in Leeds United victory
Having played the last 30 minutes of the 1-1 draw with Luton Town, Bamford finally looks to be getting back to his old self, having played a vital role in getting all three points against Boro.
He had been sidelined since January with a hamstring, only making 10 league appearances to date, but supporters were incredibly excited to see him take the No.9 role off Joel Piroe‘s hands.
While the Dutchman has fired home 15 league goals this season and assisted another six, the Elland Road faithful have become frustrated with his lack of impact as Leeds continued to drop points.
The clash at Riverside Stadium only wound up fans more, especially seeing just how influential Bamford was for Leeds, even having a goal ruled out for offside, incorrectly, by the linesman.
| Joel Piroe v Middlesbrough | Patrick Bamford v Middlesbrough |
| 73 minutes played | 17 minutes played |
| 65% passing accuracy | 50% passing accuracy |
| 0 chances created | 0 chances created |
| 4 duels won | 6 duels won |
| 1 foul won | 2 fouls won |
Leeds supporters call Joel Piroe to be benched v Preston
With Preston North End up next at Elland Road, supporters are ready for Farke to drop Piroe to the bench in favour of Bamford, despite him only just returning from a long-term injury.
One fan called the former Swansea City man “absolutely useless”, with the majority of fans wishing for his 31-year-old teammate to be given the nod before facing Preston.
Piroe is being slammed for his lack of effort, desire and impact on the pitch. Maybe, just maybe, it is time for a change of strikers for the Whites.