Dion Dublin issues ‘monster’ verdict on Leeds United forward Patrick Bamford after FA Cup performance
Dion Dublin told Match Of The Day that Leeds United must keep Patrick Bamford fit as he’s going to be a “monster” for them after his impressive FA Cup display against Accrington Stanley.
The Whites are through to the fifth round of the competition after a 3-1 victory at the Wham Stadium thanks to goals from Jack Harrison, Junior Firpo and Luis Sinisterra gave the Whites a morale-boosting win.
And after a tough campaign marred with injuries and fitness issues, Jesse Marsch had the fit-again Bamford to thank for a complete performance up front alongside new signing Georginio Rutter, providing a delicious assist for Firpo to bag the second goal.
It was the striker’s first start since a 2-0 defeat to Leicester City in October, and he received praise from Dublin for his match-winning performance leading the line and believes he could have a big role to if he can avoid injuries in the coming months.
Speaking on BBC Match of the Day [28 January, 49m:08s], he said: “I like him, I like Bamford. I think he’s a very, very good player. And he’s great for Leeds. Keep him fit he’s going to be a monster.”
Stay Fit
It would indeed be a huge boost for Leeds if Bamford could stay fit for the remainder of the campaign.
Last season was an absolute write-off for the striker featuring in only 10 games all season and there were concerns that this campaign could go a similar way given how long it’s been since he played a full 90 minutes.
It is clear Marsch is going to need all the quality he can get at his disposal for the remainder of the season as the Whites look to steer clear of a relegation battle, and possessing a fully fit Bamford could be absolutely crucial in them achieving those ambitions.
But after his performance against Accrington Stanley, he is looking like a player with a point to prove again. He was one of the Premier League’s best strikers two seasons ago registering an astonishing 17 goals and 8 assists from all 38 league games.
If Leeds can get him back to anywhere near those levels, then another season in the English top flight is all but guaranteed.
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