England cap was ‘cherry on top’ of best year – Leeds United star Bamford
Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford says his 2021 has been his “best year” to date as the year draws to a close.
The 28-year-old is currently out of action through injury but his year consisted of firing the Whites to a top-half finish in their first season back in the Premier League.
A first call up for England was his just rewards for a fine 12 months on the pitch.
“I’d say it’s been the best year in my career to date,” Bamford told Sky Sports, “I hit some real highs and targets that I want to push on from next year.
“If I’d just scored the goals and not got called up it would have only been a good year for me, not my best to date.
“The England cap was the cherry on top because it’s something I’ve worked towards since Under-18s when I first got called up for England
“Now that I’ve had a taste, I want to push to get back into that camp.”
Even better 2022
While 2021 certainly is Bamford best footballing year so far, he won’t be satisfied if that is still the case in 12 months time.
The international call up is a dream every player shares but Bamford has the ability and temperament to become a main stay of Gareth Southgate’s squad.
The Qatar World Cup in November will be number one on Bamford’s wish list when he returns to fitness.
His season so far has been one of frustration with multiple injuries keeping him out of Marcelo Bielsa’s side for the majority of games.
He did briefly return in Leeds’ 2-2 draw against Brentford where he scored a 95th minute equaliser but he has since picked up another knock that has seen him miss the Whites’ last three games.
In other Leeds United news, Marcelo Bielsa is keen on bringing this powerhouse defender to Elland Road.