Patrick Bamford could solve Leeds United ‘problem’ amid Hay update – Whelan
Patrick Bamford could hold the key to preventing opposition defenders from breaking the lines of Leeds United, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Whites striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 28-year-old could remedy the “recurring problem” upon his injury return.
Bamford remains sidelined but could return when Leeds United face Aston Villa on 10 March, according to The Athletic’s Phil Hay (26 February).
The England international recorded the third-most pressures of any player in the Whites squad last season, behind only Jack Harrison and Kalvin Phillips (as per FBref).
Opposition defenders Victor Lindelof and Joel Matip played key roles in goals in back-to-back defeats against Man United and Liverpool respectively last week.
Whelan claimed the return of Bamford’s pressing could aid in fixing something that has “really let Leeds down” this term.
“I think the whole team needs to be taking responsibility,” he told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge.
“I hate to put it on one player’s shoulders, and it’s obviously not his main job. However, I think if Patrick Bamford was playing then that threat would be a significantly smaller problem.
“It’s a recurring problem. We saw it with Joel Matip, and we’ve seen it with Victor Lindelof against Man United, as well.
“One of Bamford’s strengths is his running. He would have tracked those players all the way back deep inside his own half.
“Once that transition happens and that player starts to look to bring the ball forward, there needs to be a quicker reaction. Get into shape, get solid in banks of defence and midfield.
“There needs to be more eagerness from certain players. It’s far too easy sometimes for players to drive 30-40 yards with the ball.
“It’s something that has really let us down this season.”
Whites boss Marcelo Bielsa departed by mutual consent yesterday after winning just five league games this term.
Leeds travel to Leicester City on Saturday.
In other news, Leeds United employee demands a law change after club statement.