Patrick Bamford news: ‘Special’ role in store for Leeds star as expert makes claim on dismal season

An injury expert has tipped Patrick Bamford for a ‘special’ role at Leeds United in the last few games, and labelled the striker ‘huge’ for their survival chances.

Injury troubles have been rife at Leeds for much of this season. A number of their most important players have been out for extended periods of the season.

Two of their best players: Bamford and Kalvin Phillips, have been particularly big misses. While Phillips has returned to the side, Bamford remains on the sidelines.

He has been unlucky this season with multiple injuries hindering his game-time. In fact, Bamford has only played nine league games this season thanks to three separate injuries.

Leeds have suffered mightily up top in his absence. Bamford was the Whites’ top goalscorer last season with 17. He has managed just two this season due to his lack of games.

The lack of goals, as well as an injury crisis among other factors has contributed to Leeds’ nervy league position. They are currently in the drop zone in 18th place.

But a return to the side could be in store for Bamford, according to injury expert Ben Dinnery.

“It depends on results elsewhere. I certainly think there is a special role from the bench to be had for Bamford,” he told Football Insider.

“He isn’t going to be where they want him in terms of fitness and sharpness but he knows how to score. He will make opportunities for himself and he is huge for that Leeds team.”

Throwing caution to the wind and including Bamford despite not being at full fitness could turn out to be a masterstroke from Leeds, should they include him, and end up staying up.

What’s more, Daniel James will now miss the remaining matches through suspension and Raphinha and Jack Harrison both limped out through injury against Chelsea. Bamford’s late return – even if only off the bench – could be huge.

Dinnery feels Bamford injuries have hampered Leeds

Dinnery feels that Leeds would not be in the tough spot they are in were Bamford fit for a longer period of the season.

“With a fully fit Patrick Bamford, Leeds would be nowhere near where they are currently,” he added.

“They don’t really have a natural goalscorer at the moment. They have tried a few up there but no one has got anywhere near his goal return.”

Daniel James has deputised up front for much of the season, and not having an out-and-out attacker up top has not helped Leeds.

What’s more, taking Bamford’s goals out of the team has done them no favours. It may now be too little too late for him to come in and save the day, though Leeds will hope that is not the case.

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