Bielsa provides big update on ‘important’ Leeds star closing in on return

Bielsa Leeds TEAMtalk

Marcelo Bielsa insists that Adam Forshaw remains an “important” player for Leeds, as the midfielder nears his return from a long-term injury absence.

The 29-year-old has suffered woeful luck on the injury front and has not played for the Whites since early in the 2019/20 campaign. A serious hip problem has continually halted Forshaw’s progress, however, he could now return before the end of the current campaign.

The midfielder, who reportedly earns £20,000 per week, has made just 52 appearances for Leeds to date. However, Bielsa is hopeful there are many more to come.

Speaking after Saturday’s 2-1 win over Sheffield United, Bielsa gave an update on Forshaw’s chances of featuring this term.

He said: “Even in a positive moment for 10 days, need to be measured in months. Hasn’t played for two seasons, to be able to play 90 minutes at a high competition, there’s a while to go.

“He is healthy and he has two months left of the season. Important player.”


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Bamford closing on new Leeds deal

Meanwhile, reports claim striker Patrick Bamford will sign a contract extension with Leeds United before the start of next season.

Bamford’s current Elland Road deal is set to expire at the end of 2021-2022. His form for the Whites has seen other clubs linked, with former employers Chelsea thought to be keen. He was on the Stamford Bridge books between 2012 and 2017 but did not kick a ball for the Blues. The Grantham-born ace enjoyed loan spells with Milton Keynes, Derby County, Middlesbrough, Crystal Palace, Norwich and Burnley.

Marcelo Bielsa: We could have scored more goals

Marcelo Bielsa: We could have scored more goals

Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa says his side had chances to score more goals following their 2-1 victory over Sheffield United.

He eventually penned permanent terms with Boro in January 2017 but signed for Leeds in July 2018. Bamford inked a four-year deal with the West Yorkshire outfit and has taken his game to another level.

Having bagged nine Championship goals in 2018-19, he netted 16 the following season. And, having helped Leeds reach the Premier League, he has 14 in the top flight.

Doubts were raised over his ability to make an impact in England’s top division. But he has now put those to bed and appears close to an England call-up.

Three Lions chief Gareth Southgate chose Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins during the recent international break. Bamford’s omission surprised many, with Southgate himself saying he was “very unfortunate” to miss out.

England’s loss is Leeds gain as the forward should be fresh for the run-in. All eyes will then turn to whether or not he will sign a new deal or look to move on.

The Athletic are reporting that Leeds will sit down with the player in the coming months. Marcelo Bielsa is a big fan and they do not want to risk losing him for nothing next summer.

READ MORE: Arsenal weigh up return for holding midfielder linked with Leeds transfer