Leeds ace Patrick Bamford hopeful of playing against Burnley
Patrick Bamford has told Yorkshire Evening Post that he could be available when Leeds United take on Burnley at Elland Road on January 2.
The one-cap England international striker has only featured in six Premier League games in 2021-22, with two separate injuries preventing him from playing in the other 12 fixtures.
Bamford, 28, is set to benefit from the recent Covid-enforced postponements, and he believes he is on track to return to action sooner rather than later, with the clash against Sean Dyche’s men on Sunday a possibility.
“The injury is coming along good,” the Leeds ace told the Yorkshire Evening Post.
“I think it was almost a blessing in disguise that the two games over Christmas got postponed, but yeah, it’s coming along nicely. I should be doing drills tomorrow (30 December) and then we’ll see how close we are.
“It’s touch and go for Burnley. I’m feeling good. I’ve hit every marker that’s been laid down so far day to day, so it’s been a good improvement. It’s not a few weeks away. It’s very close.”
Massive boost
Leeds had their games against Liverpool and Aston Villa postponed as injuries and Covid-19 made it impossible for them to have the required number of players available for the matches.
With most of the players now nearing full fitness, they are set to return to action this weekend, and having Bamford back would be massive.
He picked up a knock to a hamstring while celebrating his late equaliser in the 2-2 clash against Brentford earlier this month, and the Whites lost all the three games they played afterwards.
The Burnley game is a six-pointer for them, and they will fancy their chances of winning it with Bamford on the pitch.
Despite his limited appearances, he has managed to bag two goals and two assists, with only Raphinha involved in more goals than him.
Leeds have largely relied on the Brazilian attacker in Bamford’s absence, and his return should help them steer clear of the drop zone.
Starting the Burnley game could be too much to ask, but he could come off the bench to make an impact as he did last time out.
In other Leeds United news, Whites chiefs recently jetted out of the UK for talks.