‘Completely different calibre of player’: Exclusive – Pundit makes big Leeds striker claim
We’re delighted to welcome former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Leeds United…
Paul Robinson has said that Patrick Bamford will get a chance in the Premier League if Leeds get promoted.
However, he also said that Leeds would need to buy a new striker in the summer, possibly two, and would be looking for a “completely different calibre of player”.
Leeds have struggled for strikers this season. Eddie Nketiah joined on loan in the first half of the season but struggled for game time and was recalled by Arsenal in January.
Leeds then signed Jean-Kevin Augustin on loan with an option to buy but he’s yet to start for his new club after fitness issues.
Patrick Bamford has been Bielsa’s number one choice but has only scored 13 goals in the Championship and has come in for heavy criticism.
Despite that, talking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, Robinson said, “I think Bielsa will give him a chance, there is a place for him in that Premier League side.
“Beisla likes the player and he’s always been up there as one of the first names on his team sheet.
“His goal scoring hasn’t been what it could be but he brings a lot to the table.
“If they do go up to the Premier League they’ll be looking at a completely different calibre of player as all teams do when they go up.
“Sheffield United didn’t spend much money but even they got Lys Mousset from Bournemouth and pad £10m for him.
“Leeds can’t go into the Premier League with just Bamford and I think they need another two strikers.”
Augustin could be one of those two new strikers if he impresses enough between now and the end of the season.
He’s struggled for fitness but Bielsa is a fan and it does look like he’s been signed for the future.
However, even though Leeds have an option, Augustin would need to want to sign and that could depend on him getting game time.
Either way, Robinson is right to say that Leeds will need to buy to strengthen and it will be fascinating to see who Bielsa and Victor Orta pick if they are promoted.
In other Leeds United news, Phil Hay makes significant Leeds re-start claim as club ‘confident’ of ‘2-3 week’ timescale