Football journalist Beren Cross has claimed that he doesn’t expect Leeds United duo Patrick Bamford and Luke Ayling to start in the club’s next league game.
Over the weekend, a last-minute penalty against Wolves afforded the club a welcome point in the Premier League. However, they had to manage the game without the key pair who have both missed a number of games recently.
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Injuries have meant that Bamford has not played since the 1-1 draw against Newcastle United. While it’s a similar story for Ayling whose last outing for the side also came in that same match in the middle of September.
While discussing the players during a Leeds United Live video, Cross said that even if the duo are back in training soon, he still thinks their next league match – against Norwich City – may come a little too soon for either man to start.
He explained (22:53): “I still feel that even if Bamford and Ayling return to what’s considered full training next week, I just can’t see Bielsa starting them.
“Phillips again has reiterated what we all know, that he is so patient with returning players. I just can’t see them doing anything better than the bench next week.”
TIF thoughts on Patrick Bamford, Luke Ayling, and Leeds United…
Both men were absolutely pivotal to the club’s excellent performances in the league last season. Bamford in particular stood out with his 17 goals and eight assists.
Even so, Ayling was also an integral member of the team, playing in every single Premier League game as the club finished ninth.
Considering their shaky start to the current campaign, Marcelo Bielsa will surely want these players back and fit as soon as possible. Still, as Cross suggests, he may be wary of rushing them back ahead of schedule.
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