Micah Richards hails 'exceptional' Patrick Bamford after clash v Wolves

Sky Sports pundit Micah Richards has heaped praise on Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford, calling him "exceptional" and saying he would take him to the Euros in the summer. 

Bamford has scored 12 goals in the Premier League this season, one fewer than Harry Kane, Son and Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

He was unlucky not to make it 13 in the game against Wolves on Friday night, after having a goal chalked off for a very tight offside.

Talking on Sky Sports on Sunday (11.35am) Richards put the case forward for Gareth Southgate giving Bamford a shot this summer.

"I’m taking Bamford, I have to play Bamford," said Richards.

"I think he’s been exceptional, different, left-footed, can drop deep, score goals, playing in a team that’s just come up."

Richards was asked, "So you’d take him ahead of Ollie Watkins? Dominic Calvert-Lewin?"

"It’s difficult," replied Richards. "I just think he offers something different; the way he plays, the way he makes runs."

Longshot for the Euros

Bamford has to have a chance for the Euros if he can maintain his fine start to the season.

However, he's up against it. He hasn't been selected for an England squad before and you'd have to think that Southgate already has his squad in mind.

It might take an injury for Bamford to realise his dream.

However, it's been a brilliant season for Bamford and he could easily have 14 goals and be out on his own in third in the race for the Golden Boot, but for a couple of very tight offside decisions.

He'll be confident of getting back on the scoresheet on Tuesday night, though, as Southampton travel to Elland Road.

They've lost four out of their last five but could leapfrog Leeds if they spring a shock.

Leeds could jump back ahead of Wolves with the three points.

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