Ian Poveda decision hands Mateo Joseph golden opportunity to usurp Patrick Bamford in Leeds United pecking order
The departure of Ian Poveda on international duty may have handed Leeds United prospect Mateo Joseph an incredible opportunity to break into the first team.
Youngster Joseph joined the Whites from Espanyol in January 2022 and has since impressed in the youth divisions after recovering from an ankle injury, as well as performing under Ian Foster for England U20s.
Poveda has opted to go away on international duty with Colombia, a decision ratified by the club, and while Patrick Bamford is expected to be fit enough for a spot on the bench, Daniel Farke could see 20-year-old Joseph as a suitable replacement, used as an understudy to Georginio Rutter and Joel Piroe, Joe Donnohue wrote in the Yorkshire Evening Post (5 December).
After putting aside his status and many years at the club, finding a successor to Bamford should be a top priority for Leeds and Farke. The 30-year-old has played just 147 minutes across 11 Championship appearances this season and is yet to score or assist.
In addition to this, the view of him being the ‘super-sub’ to replace the strikers was tarnished when he missed a late penalty in a 1-0 loss to Stoke City, plus his movements against Rotherham United causing Jaidon Anthony’s winner to be chalked off for offside.
The quick pace, dynamism and athleticism of Joseph could see him replace Bamford on the bench for the next few games against Blackburn Rovers, Sunderland, and Coventry City, and probably should.
Bamford has been more of a problem in the most recent seasons than a saviour, which is difficult to say. His cult hero status sees him put in the same bracket as Luke Ayling, who Leeds fans would be devastated to see leave. But all good things must come to an end.
If the 20-year-old is to relieve Bamford of his duties in the coming weeks, it could signify the start of a very slippery slope for the experienced striker at the club, but also a passing of the torch if done correctly and respectfully.
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