Patrick Bamford: Pundit issues ‘massive’ Leeds United claim after development in last 12 hours
Kevin Campbell is over the moon to see Patrick Bamford return to action for Leeds United.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Arsenal and Everton striker suggested the 28-year-old will have a “massive” say on whether the Whites beat the drop this season.
Bamford has been plagued by injury this season but returned to the bench for Sunday’s 1-0 loss at Leicester City.
On Thursday (10 March), the centre-forward made his long-awaited return to action as a second-half substitute in a 3-0 defeat to Villa at Elland Road.
As quoted by Leeds Live pots-match, Jesse Marsch said Bamford’s performance is cause for optimism after the loss.
When asked for his assessment of Bamford’s return, Campbell told Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs:
“Look, I just think Bamford is essential for Leeds if they are going to stay up.
“Let’s be honest, Leeds don’t have too many options up top.
“He is the cutting edge they have lacked. I’m sure that if he was on the fit and playing against Leicester they would have won. It was one of those games where whoever took the lead would win the game.
“To have Bamford back is a big positive though. He is going to be massively important for Leeds right now.”
Bamford has contributed two goals and two assists in seven Premier League games this season.
Next up for the Whites is the visit of fellow strugglers Norwich City.
In other news, a pundit has issued a ‘brilliant’ Kalvin Phillips verdict after new Leeds training ground pictures emerge.