The international break saw England chalk up two comfortable wins against Hungary and Andorra, but the biggest headline of the break was Patrick Bamford making his Three Lions debut.
The Leeds striker was given the nod by Gareth Southgate after an incredible 2020/21 season, and while he’s not started this term with the same bang he started with last year, there’s reason to believe he may be about to kick on.
Think about it, this time last year, Bamford had a point to prove. Even his own fans doubted whether or not he was good enough for the Premier League, but it was quickly apparent that he was up to the task ahead of him.
17 goals later his point was proven, but now he has a new score to settle.
Indeed, in the wake of his England call-up some Three Lions supporters were again questioning his credentials, and he again has a point to prove.
The striker position is incredibly competitive in Gareth Southgate’s side, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Harry Kane, Danny Ings, Mason Greenwood, Tammy Abraham and Ollie Watkins are just a few of the names vying for a position in the squad, and if Bamford wants to build on his first cap, he needs to continue proving himself.
That first taste of international football may have further fuel the fire that saw Bamford ignite in the Premier League last season, and there’s reason to believe this experience will push the 28-year-old on to become even more dangerous for Leeds.
A striker is never more threatening than when he has a point to prove, and Bamford now has to show that he’s worthy of being picked time and time again by Southgate.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
