Leeds United manager Daniel Farke has confirmed he spoke to Patrick Bamford after his penalty miss but is adamant he ‘does not need’ his backing.
Farke was speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s West Yorkshire derby with Huddersfield Town, where he was asked about the details of his chat with Bamford.
Bamford endured another miserable night in a Leeds shirt on Wednesday as he missed his third penalty in a row, which ultimately cost the Whites a big victory.
The 30-year-old put his 75th minute spot-kick over the bar with the score at 0-0, before Stoke City then went up the other end a matter of moments later and went in front.
Given his recent record from the spot, there were huge questions after the match as to why he was once again given the responsibility, with Leeds supporters far from happy.
Farke shares details of Bamford chat
When asked about his chat with Bamford, Farke played down the need to give him his ‘backing’ due to the experience he has, and says the conversation did not last very long.
“It was not a big topic. Short chat, but that’s it. He does not need my backing. He is experienced. Difficult situation. That’s football. Use a penalty and it’s a different story. Patrick a hero. Subs changed the game and won the game, everything is all right. Miss the penalty and everything is unlucky and disappointing.”
In truth, there is not much that Farke could’ve said to Bamford as he has been through this situation before.
Nothing the Leeds boss could’ve said to the press would’ve eased the criticism and pressure that has now mounted on Bamford after the miss, and so it is probably the right decision to continue playing it down.
However, Farke will now have to manage Bamford carefully in the coming weeks as it is clear the relationship between player and supporters is hanging by a thread.
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