Graham Smyth shares ‘horrific’ Patrick Bamford and Georginio Rutter update in Leeds United pre-season clash v Hearts

Leeds United losing strikers Patrick Bamford and Georginio Rutter a week before the new season is “horrific,” according to journalist Graham Smyth.

Smyth reported via his personal Twitter account that Rutter lasted just 26 minutes in the club’s pre-season clash against Hearts on Sunday (30 July) before being forced off with an injury.

His replacement Bamford was then substituted nine minutes from time, also due to an injury, with the Whites winning the match 1-0.

“Looked to me like Bamford possibly reached for his hamstring as he went down there,” Smyth wrote on Twitter.

“Will be one to check with Farke. Both nines going off injured a week before the season is horrific.”

Major blow

It really is a massive blow for Leeds and their new manager Daniel Farke, with Bamford and Rutter expected to play key roles for the club next season.

The new Championship campaign is rapidly approaching, with the Whites kicking things off with a test against Cardiff City on 6 August.

Pre-season clashes are a great opportunity for players to get minutes in the legs and for managers to gauge where their players are currently at, but they can also result in injuries, as was the case at Tynecastle.

Bamford has struggled massively with injuries over the years, so this latest development is a huge blow to the player, who will have simply wanted one season free from any struggles.

Rutter meanwhile has a point to prove in white following his initial struggles at Elland Road, but it remains to be seen when his chance will come given this injury update.

In other Leeds United news, Sam Allardyce has shared what must “change dramatically” for the Whites to be promoted next season.