Official Man Utd report picks out ‘brilliant’ Leeds duo as players to watch
Manchester United have picked out both Patrick Bamford and Kalvin Phillips as two of Leeds’ most important players.
In an official preview on Manchester United club website, the Red Devils highlighted the Leeds pair and said: “Bamford is among the Premier League’s leading goalscorers this season, having plundered nine goals from his 13 games so far, including a brilliant hat-trick in a 3-0 win over Aston Villa.”
When discussing the role of Phillips in Marcelo Bielsa’s side, they had this to say about the Yorkshire Pirlo: “Phillips is also at the heart of Leeds’ side, regularly dropping deep from midfield and spreading play.”
Phillips has not been short of praise this season, with many appreciating the role that he plays for both club and country.
However, it is great to see Bamford finally get the recognition he deserves at this level.
The former Middlesbrough striker was one of a few players that were questioned following Leeds’ promotion and he has replied in brilliant fashion with nine league goals so far.
Big opportunity for Bamford
It could be another big opportunity to showcase his ability in the Premier League for Bamford on Sunday, up against a leaky Manchester United defence that has conceded 19 times this season – the joint-highest in the top half of the table.
According to WhoScored, Manchester United are conceding 11.25 shots a game currently, while free-scoring Leeds could pile on the pressure as they enjoy 15 shots on target per 90 minutes in the Premier League, as per Wyscout.
With plenty of chances likely to fall his way, Bamford could be best placed to try and exploit the inconsistency of Victor Lindelof.
According to Wyscout, the Swede wins 54% of his defensive duels and only 48% of his aerial duels per 90 minutes in the Premier League.
Bamford is only two goals off the top of the Premier League goalscoring charts as things stand, so a successful trip to Old Trafford could close the gap even further.
In other Leeds United news, The Athletic predicts early Man Utd team news with key trio set to start v Leeds