'No way Gareth wouldn't...' - Sky Sports pundit backs Leeds ace for England recognition

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28 Oct 2020, 2:05 am

Emile Heskey has backed Leeds United forward Patrick Bamford to earn an England call-up if his form continues in the Premier League.

The 27-year-old scored his first hat-trick for the Whites in the 3-0 win at Aston Villa on Friday, outscoring each club in match-week six.

Bamford has reiterated his desire to represent England, claiming he has his fingers crossed over the November international break.

Sky Sports pundit, Heskey has claimed there is no way Gareth Southgate could ignore him if his form continues next month.

"Bamford was on fire," he told HITC.

"He was unlucky in the first half, he didn’t connect properly with a couple of chances. It could have been five.

"If he keeps up this run of form, there’s no way Gareth wouldn’t put him in the squad."

Kalvin Phillips became the first Leeds player to represent England since Alan Smith in 2004 at the beginning of this season, and he will not be at the next camp.

We have all waited for nearly two decades for someone to play for the Three Lions, and more than one could come along in the space of a few months.

Only one English striker has scored more goals in the Premier League this season - Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and he has been recognised for his efforts.

Bamford actually has a better shot conversion rate than Harry Kane this season too [BBC], so why wouldn't he be on Southgate's agenda?

Another handful of goals against Leicester and Crystal Palace would surely all but guarantee the 27-year-old's place at St George's Park.

In other Leeds United news, Nigel Martyn makes prediction after tremendous PL start

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Leeds United

Patrick Bamford

Emile Heskey