Daniel Farke backs Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford to make an impact
Leeds United manager Daniel Farke believes Patrick Bamford is “capable” of helping his side in the Championship.
The German manager’s comments came after Bamford scored during the club’s 2-0 pre-season win over Premier League side Nottingham Forest on Thursday 27 July at the Pirelli Stadium in Burton.
Speaking after the match, the German coach piled the praise on his goalscorer.
“Yeah really ice cold finish today,” Farke said after the match, as reported by Leeds Live (28 July).
“He doesn’t have to prove that he’s an outstanding striker with a cap for England, not the easiest nation to play for. We don’t have to speak about his experience, about quality, but also after difficult season or seasons, the injury, each and every goal is important.
“I think he was there with a good performance today and the most important topic for Patrick is that he stays fit, that he stays in this movement, if he’s fit and also full of confidence I’m pretty sure he’s capable to score several goals for us.”
Revival
It is no secret that the 29-year-old striker did not enjoy the best season for the Whites as they were relegated from the Premier League last year. Bamford played 28 matches in the league and scored just four times, a disappointing return.
As a result, he was subject to plenty of criticism and his new manager has therefore quickly taken this opportunity to offer him some praise, and his performance as well as the comments will do the striker’s confidence the world of good.
Farke’s suggestion that Bamford is “capable to score several goals for us” perhaps implies that he sees the player as part of his plans for the upcoming campaign.
The last time the Englishman featured in the Championship he scored 16 goals as Marco Bielsa led the Yorkshire giants to promotion, and if Bamford can provide a similar return this season, then promotion will surely be well within reach.
Perhaps Bamford still has another big season in him at Elland Road after all.
In other Leeds United news, the club are set to lose another first-team star after “done deal”.