According to Phil Hay, Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford is in contention to return from injury against Southampton.
Bamford has had his fair share of injury issues throughout his five years at Leeds United. He was instrumental in the Whites’ promotion under Marcelo Bielsa, and he thrived in his first season back in the Premier League.
Injuries have slowed his growth since then, and Bamford has struggled for form in front of goal. The hope is that he can regain his form in the second division.
The 30-year-old has yet to play this season owing to injury, but a positive update on his status has emerged.
During Daniel Farke’s pre-match press conference ahead of the long trip to Southampton, reporter Hay revealed that Bamford will play against the Saints. He will travel down alongside Farke’s Leeds United squad, it has been revealed.
Injury latest – Bamford is an option this weekend and expected to travel with the squad. #lufc
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) September 28, 2023
A boost for everyone
While Bamford’s goal-scoring struggles have lowered his stock in recent seasons, his comeback can only be a good thing. It’s no secret what he’s capable of at the Championship level, and even if he doesn’t start, he can be a reliable backup for new talisman Joel Piroe.
His comeback will also raise competition for the top starting berth. That battle for Farke’s striker slot should only motivate Piroe and Bamford even more, hopefully bringing forth the best in both.
In Leeds United’s promotion-winning season, Bamford scored 16 goals and supplied four assists in 45 league games. The following season, he scored 17 goals and had eight assists in 38 Premier League appearances.
The striker is determined to regain his lethal form, and his return to contention is a significant step in the right direction.
