Jesse Marsch delivers Patrick Bamford update that will delight Leeds fans

Follow us on Google Discover

Jesse Marsch has told Thursday’s press conference – as quoted by the Yorkshire Evening Post – that Patrick Bamford is looking sharp and while he is likely to start for Leeds against Wolves, he is not yet 100% fit.

Bamford, 28, ended pre-season without picking up any injuries by scoring an excellent brace in a 6-2 win over Serie B side Cagliari last Sunday. But it comes after managing just nine Premier League outings last term, due to injuries.

The England striker has already spoken about his desire to get back to his best to force his way into the World Cup reckoning. He is expected to start against Wolves after gaining 90 minutes of action against the Italians.

Asked about Bamford’s fitness, Marsch gave an encouraging update after ruling seven of his teammates out of the game. He says that the ex-Chelsea man is looking sharp, but he is not yet at his maximum fitness.

• Newcastle and Tottenham want Leeds star, but Elland Road is his best move
• Robin Koch an unsung hero at right-back in Leeds’ final games of 21/22

“It’s been a huge week for him, he looks great, he looks fit, he looks sharp. The good thing as well is now having Patrick closer to 100%, we’ve been able to work tactically through what we want him to look like.

“I believe there’s a lot of room for improvement and that’s our goal to help him. He looks great, he’s psychologically incredibly excited and I know we have a great player on our hands. Is he at 100%, probably not but he’s close.”

Marsch: Leeds star Bamford is looking sharp, but not 100%

It is brilliant news for Leeds. Comparing this campaign to last season, Bamford is basically another new signing. Marsch now has an England international at his disposal, one capable of scoring more than 15 league goals a season.

What Marsch must be careful with, is running Bamford into the ground. Last season, he tried to rush Bamford back into the side with the club fighting relegation. But now, he has done it more methodically, during the pre-season campaign.

Bamford will certainly start against Wolves on Saturday and while he might not get 90 minutes, Leeds do have at least Joe Gelhardt and five subs to use. A few games in, and Leeds fans can expect Bamford to be back at his best.