Leeds United have finally fixed long-term Patrick Bamford issue after what I’ve ‘seen’ – former manager
Alex McLeish has suggested Leeds United have finally found a “capable replacement” for Patrick Bamford in Joe Gelhardt.
The former Scotland manager, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, admitted it is “a matter of time” before the 19-year-old gets more first-team game time.
Despite Bamford’s lengthy absence through injury, Gelhardt has only started twice this season.
The likes of Dan James, Rodrigo Moreno and Jack Harrison have all been utilised as makeshift centre-forwards.
However, McLeish suggested Gelhardt may finally end Leeds’ striker struggles.
Asked about Gelhardt possibly getting more senior game time, McLeish told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “I guess it’s a matter of time. Possibly he’s studied Bamford as well with some of the videos and watched the movement.
“I would think he’d be inspired by Bamford. We’ve seen a pretty good performance from Gelhardt.
“At long last, do Leeds have a capable substitution or replacement for Bamford? That’s the one guy that they couldn’t really replace.”
Bamford made his first start since September against Norwich City on Sunday (13 March) but only lasted 45 minutes.
Meanwhile, Gelhardt came off the bench in the dying minutes to score a last-gasp winner.
The teenager joined Leeds from Wigan Athletic back in 2020 and has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with the first team this season.
He has played 15 times for the senior side at Elland Road, with 13 Premier League appearances under his belt.
The youngster has netted twice in the top flight so far, with a further three assists under his belt.
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