Darren Bent says he’s a hypocrite after England claim on Leeds United star Patrick Bamford
Darrent Bent has lavished praise on Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford but doesn’t think he should be selected for England at the European Championships.
Gareth Southgate’s long list for UEFA’s showpiece tournament this summer is expected to be announced on Tuesday afternoon, and there are serious doubts over whether Bamford will make the cut.
The Leeds forward has not been named in a squad by Southgate yet, despite scoring more Premier League goals (17) than every other English player except captain Harry Kane (23).
Speaking on talkSPORT Breakfast [06:00, 25/05/21], ex-England international Bent admits he wouldn’t select Bamford, despite his goalscoring prowess for the Whites.
“I feel like the biggest hypocrite when it comes to Patrick Bamford because that was me, in 2006 I was in the exact same position,” he said.
“I came out of the Championship and the only people who beat me for goals were Thierry Henry and Ruud Van Nistelrooy, and I was thinking ‘how can I not go?’
“But I’m here with my squad and Bamford’s not in my squad either.
“He’s been absolutely sensational this season, so for me sitting here and saying he shouldn’t be there, it’s poor on my part.”
Unluckiest player to miss out?
There will surely be no player who will feel more aggrieved than Bamford if he misses out.
Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold might have something to say about that if he is not included, but no one could deny that his performances at the start of the season were sub-standard, in an area of the pitch where there is huge competition.
However Bamford has been a consistent source of goals for the Whites this season, and he also has seven assists to his name.
In an expanded 26-man squad surely there is room for the 27-year-old?
It appears unlikely, though, with Kane certain to be joined by Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin and possible slots for Mason Greenwood (Manchester United) and Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa).
Bamford will be left kicking his heels at home, but if he continues his form next season then surely Southgate cannot ignore him any longer.
In other Leeds United news, The Athletic claims this £40m-rated Whites-linked sensation will be allowed to leave his club this summer.