Despite not getting on the scoresheet, Patrick Bamford produced a strong performance as Leeds United recorded a much-needed 1-0 win over promotion rivals West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday night.
Tony Pulis has stated that Patrick Bamford has ‘everything’ as a striker and backed the Leeds United man to score 20 goals in the Championship this season.
The former Middlesbrough manager, who sold Bamford to Leeds last summer, also stated that ‘everybody’ who has worked with Bamford speaks about ‘that strength of character’.
Bamford is a marmite like figure amongst Leeds supporters, whilst some understand that he can put the ball into the back of the net on a regular basis, others feel that he just misses too many important and costly chances.
Nonetheless, speaking to Sky Sports Football (01/10/2019), Pulis shared his thoughts on Bamford and urged him to roll his sleeves up and prove his worth to everyone.
“I worked with Patrick at Middlesbrough and this is a real test of character,” Pulis told Sky Sports. “Everybody that you speak to who have worked with Patrick have always said ‘that strength of character’. That’s the big thing.
“There’s not a bigger club in that league than Leeds United. And the supporters are demanding. And he’s playing as their number nine and their main goalscorer. It’s not gone as well as he would have wanted to. [I would say to him] roll your sleeves up and show everyone what a good player you are.
“If you go out there worrying about missing chances and not getting involved. I am convinced Patrick will get through it and he’ll end up scoring 20 goals for them this year. If I had one criticism of Bamford it would just be that he needs to be a little bit stronger physically. [But] technically, [he can use] both feet and he’s good in the air. He can bring people into play. He’s got everything.”
Bamford is Marcelo Bielsa’s main man up top this season and has started every Championship game, with Eddie Nketiah as the back-up man.
Whilst he hasn’t scored since Leeds win against Stoke City, he did put in a strong display during Leeds’ 1-0 win over West Brom on Tuesday.
Bamford’s success this season has come away from Elland Road and he will be hoping to find the back of the net when Bielsa’s side take on Millwall at the Den.
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