Pete Hanson

Sun 7 January 2024 14:43, UK

Paul Robinson was not altogether too impressed by one moment involving Patrick Bamford in the first half of Leeds United versus Peterborough United in the third round of the FA Cup.

The experienced striker retained in his place in the starting XI at London Road after scoring in the 3-0 win over Birmingham City on New Year’s Day.

Bamford had a terrific opportunity to put Leeds in front when he met a fantastic right-wing ball from Wilfried Gnonto but put his header straight at Peterborough goalkeeper Fynn Talley.

“Patrick Bamford should do better he has to score,” he said for BBC Radio 5 live as quoted by BBC Sport’s live blog (7 January).

“It is great work from Willy Gnonto to get the ball in and a free header for Bamford. He just heads it straight towards the keeper.”

Bamford did later chest down a free-kick from Jaidon Anthony from which Ethan Ampadu swept home to put Leeds 1-0 ahead at half-time.

Should have scored

It has been largely a season of frustration for Bamford, who has mainly been out of the team with Georginio Rutter leading the line and Joel Piroe playing in the number 10 role, meaning Bamford has been warming the bench.

He took his opportunity against Birmingham last time out, though, and deservedly kept his place in the starting line-up for this cup tie where Piroe was brought back into the team to act as the closest support.

However, Bamford will not want to see this one back. It was superb work from Gnonto on the right-hand side and his delivery was put on an absolute plate for his teammate, who ought to have made the net bulge but only headed straight at the goalkeeper.

Frankly, given there is still some doubt over his future at Elland Road, it is the kind of opportunity he needs to be taking and Farke will be frustrated that his striker did not do better with an absolute golden opportunity.

In other Leeds United news, an Elland Road exit has seemingly happened after the latest Fabrizio Romano report.