Dominic Matteo has told LUTV’s Matchday Show prior to the 3-1 defeat to Southampton that Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford will have to start performing quickly, if he is to break into the starting XI.
Bamford, 30, came off the bench for the last 10 minutes of Saturday’s poor showing – a second league defeat of the season. It came out of the blue, given Leeds had gone unbeaten for the last six games.
Indeed, four straight clean sheets. But Leeds were behind after two minutes, and went into the break losing 3-0. Pascal Struijk scored his third of the season. For Bamford, a step in the right direction.
The England striker has been injured since picking up an injury in a pre-season friendly against Hearts. But he finally returned off the bench and Matteo says he has his work cut out in starting for Leeds.
“We know Patrick’s had problems with injuries but we know what he can bring to the table. He’s got goals in him, a handful when he plays. Another great option,” Matteo told LUTV’s Matchday Show.
He’ll be thinking, I need to get myself going again. These lads in my position are doing well, competition for places is everything – it is key, it makes people better,” Matteo continued, discussing £10m Bamford.
Matteo: Bamford will have to perform quickly to break into XI
Despite Saturday’s loss, Joel Piroe and Georginio Rutter has been superb as our no.10 and centre-forward. But what will work in Bamford’s favour, is that there is a game against QPR on Wednesday.
An immediate turn around, after a poor display on Saturday. It might tempt Farke to hand Bamford the first hour against QPR. In the Championship, Bamford is a real weapon and Farke must use him wisely.
