David Prutton: Tyler Roberts likely to start for Leeds v West Ham

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Published on:

25 Sep 2021, 3:00 am

Leeds United are set to be without Patrick Bamford against West Ham in the Premier League this afternoon.

David Prutton has backed Tyler Roberts to fill that gap in the final third at Elland Road, with the Welshman likely getting his first start of the season.

The Sky Sports pundit believes there could be some "second fiddle" players starting as the Whites look for their first win of the season.

Writing in his Yorkshire Evening Post column, Prutton admitted there could be some second fiddle players starting at Elland Road this afternoon.

"Leeds are going to be without Patrick Bamford against West Ham which means either Rodrigo or Tyler Roberts will play upfront," he wrote.

"The position that Roberts has found himself in is playing second fiddle to a striker that has asserted himself as the out and out first choice for Bielsa and Leeds going forward.

"Particularly because of how specific the head coach sets the team up and what he wants from that centre-forward. With Roberts, it's akin to the Cresswell situation, if the door opens then somebody has got to step through it."

Crisis.

Missing this many players only five games into a Premier League season is unheard of, and this is becoming a real issue.

Roberts will be licking his lips at the opportunity, and if there was a chance to prove yourself not only in the Premier League but to the Leeds fans, it is today.

The Welshman has always shown promise in West Yorkshire but has never delivered that consistency every single week and it has led to strong questions from the fanbase regarding his ability.

Not many will be walking down to Elland Road expecting much of a result this afternoon given our problems, but we usually stand up when our backs are against the wall, and they certainly are today.

Fingers crossed for a Roberts masterclass today, although he may need more than just that for the luck - bring it on.

In other Leeds United news, 'I don't see...' - Paul Merson shares major Whites worry for West Ham clash

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