Alan Shearer reacts after what he saw Patrick Bamford do in Leeds United 1-0 loss v Everton

Alan Shearer has delivered a scathing review of Leeds United after the Whites produced a “clueless” attacking display in their 1-0 defeat to Everton.

Michael Skubala’s side failed to have a shot on target against their relegation rivals as a mistake from Illan Meslier allowed Séamus Coleman to bag all three points for the hosts.

The Match of the Day pundit highlighted Patrick Bamford’s reaction after the Leeds forward was subject to a number of long balls being launched in his direction throughout the course of the afternoon.

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“They didn’t have a shot on target today and they were pretty clueless up front, they had no options whatsoever,” said the former Newcastle striker (Match of the Day, 1hr 03m 31s, 18 February).

“Yes, Everton defended well but there were long hopeful balls up. Look at the reaction from Bamford as almost to say what on earth am I meant to do with that and it happened on more than one occasion.”

Real trouble

Leeds are now in big trouble. There’s no getting away from the fact that relegation to the Championship is now more of a probability than a possibility. This group of players should be performing to a much higher standard and sadly, it’s hard to envisage anyone coming in and turning this round.

Skubala was meant to remain in charge for the home visit of Southampton, but if a manager becomes available during the week, the board should be looking to make an appointment. Long-term planning needs to be forgotten about for the time being.

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Giving the club the best chance of Premier League survival is what’s required and trying to muster a new manager bounce could well be the smartest move from the board.

Next weekend’s fixture against the Saints is now a must-win. Leeds’ relegation rivals picked up positive results over the weekend and now they look like the one side who are dreadfully short of form.

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