According to The Yorkshire Evening Post, Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford could be available before the end of the season despite initial fears to the contrary.
After scoring 17 Premier League goals last season, Bamford has sat the majority of this term out with several injuries. After returning to action, he suffered a problem with his foot in March, and after rupturing a ligament, he was unexpected to feature again this term.
However, this latest report suggests he could be ready and available for the game against Brighton & Hove Albion on 15th May – the penultimate match of the campaign.
What could this mean for the Whites? We delve a little deeper.
Huge survival boost
Three wins and a draw in Leeds’ last four league matches have helped them move away from immediate danger and they now sit eight points above Burnley in 18th place.
However, their Premier League status is far from secure, and with Crystal Palace, Manchester City, Arsenal and Chelsea next up in the schedule, they face a struggle to add many more points to the 33 they have already collected.
Meetings with Brighton and Brentford on the final two matchdays of the campaign, therefore, are likely to be vital.
Scoring just 38 times in the league this term so far, Leeds have missed Bamford’s goals, even if the likes of Raphinha, Jack Harrison and Rodrigo have chipped in. The England international provides a focal point for Leeds’ attacks – something which Tyler Roberts has failed to do in his absence, finding the back of the net just once in the top flight this season before his own season-ending injury.
Will Leeds stay up?
Yes
No
Jesse Marsch buzzing
Marsch will no doubt be buzzing to see the striker perhaps returning sooner than first expected as the manager himself even highlighted last month the importance of having Bamford if Leeds are to secure survival this season.
The American has done well since taking over, and his presence has given Leeds hope they can remain in the top flight. To do that without a recognised natural striker is impressive, and he should have an even greater chance of implementing his philosophy with all of the club’s best players available. His impending return should in itself provide a boost, and he will surely only improve Leeds as a team.