Danny Mills issues claim on Patrick Bamford starting v Brentford after Leeds United training reveal
Danny Mills has insisted Patrick Bamford should not start for Leeds United against Brentford on Sunday (22 May) if he is not at least 90 per cent fit.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Whites and England defender claimed Jesser Marsch’s side need to start the game “all guns blazing” and unfit Bamford would not be able to lead the line.
The Athletic‘s Phil Hay reported earlier this week (15 May) that the 28-year-old has returned to full training and could return for the trip to Brentford.
The one-time England striker has only started two Premier League games in 2022 and has not made a matchday squad after limping off 23 minutes into the 3-2 win over Wolves (18 March) with a foot injury.
Asked for his verdict on Bamford making his return at Brentford, Mills told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley: “I think you leave him on the bench.
“It’s very difficult to throw him into that because if you don’t start well it could mean you have to change tactically and it disrupts your rhythm. If he’s not at least 90 per cent, I would be reluctant to risk him.
“You will be set up to the way that he plays and if you have to change that after 15 minutes or he’s not quite at it that’s not ideal. You’ve got to start all guns blazing, especially if it is a must-win game.
“Leeds are going to have to go for the win so you need to start well and on the front foot. I’m not convinced a not fully-fit Bamford is the man to do that.”
In other news, a Leeds United employee has made a ‘gutting’ dressing room claim after a ‘terrible’ development.