Leeds United can’t rely on Patrick Bamford any more after latest ‘big blow’
Paul Robinson has backed Mateo Joseph to take advantage as Patrick Bamford continues to struggle with fitness at Leeds United.
The 31-year-old has not played a single minute since the 0-0 draw with West Brom in mid-August, and while he returned to the squad to face Cardiff City, he was an unused substitute in the Welsh capital.
Joseph, on the other hand, has taken the opportunity to play football in his stride, notching one goal and three assists in his opening six matches, and is expected to remain in the starting XI.
Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, Robinson said: “It’s a big ask for Mateo Joseph but, on the flip side, he deserves a run of games. He’s a player who can improve, someone who I really like, and I think he will get goals.
“It’s difficult as a striker because if you go two or three games without a goal, the likelihood is you get replaced. Farke hasn’t got that many options but it could work in Mateo Joseph’s favour.
“Patrick Bamford has been a loss, quite a big blow. But how many times do we talk about that? He’s not someone the club can rely on to be fit week in, and week out. We don’t know how long we’ll have him for.”
Mateo Joseph to take advantage of Patrick Bamford situation at Leeds United
Fans were desperate for Joseph to be given a chance to prove himself last season as the Whites looked to secure promotion to the Premier League.
With Wilfried Gnonto, Largie Ramazani and Brenden Aaronson around him, the young Spaniard should have no problem thriving if he remains in the starting XI, even if Bamford returns to full fitness.
Of course, Bamford’s experience could be worth its weight in gold this season, with promotion the main goal, but he can still be a leading voice from the dressing room if injuries continue.
In other Leeds United news, Daniel Farke simply cannot rely on one of his Leeds stars after what has been said recently.
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