Daniel Farke has a huge decision to make in the final third when Leeds United travel to Wales to take on Cardiff City on Saturday afternoon – and Phil Hay thinks he will stick with Patrick Bamford up top.
Bamford, 30, has enjoyed what has been one of the best weeks of his career after such a dismal spell with injury and a lack of form. A goal against Birmingham in his first start of 23-24, on New Year’s Day.
Then, one of the goals of the FA Cup, as he slammed home a 25-yard volley into the back of the net as Leeds beat Peterborough 3-0. A moment of disbelief. Archie Gray reckons he’ll win the Puskas award.
So, does Farke stick with Bamford? Or does he bring Joel Piroe back into the side, a player that will be fresh after being left out of the starting XI for two consecutive matches – a player with nine goals in 24.
Hay was asked whether he would bring Piroe back into the side, or whether he would stick with Bamford when Leeds go to Cardiff on Saturday afternoon. The Athletic reporter told The Square Ball, Bamford.
“Key decision. I would [keep Bamford in the starting line-up]. It would seem odd to me [to drop him] that having got Bamford into form and got his confidence up for the first time in a long time,” Hay discussed.
“I have him down as a confidence player. Particularly on the back of that goal, but also on the back of his best week in ages, it would make sense to me. He is streaky. This is a pretty good time to invest in him.”
Phil Hay thinks Patrick Bamford will retain Leeds starting spot
Ahead of the game, Bamford was seen beating Piroe in a race in Leeds training and while the decision on who to start will obviously not hinge on the winner of a 20-yard race – it does seem pretty symbolic.
It showed Bamford high in confidence, sharp – laughing as he crossed the finish line with Piroe a yard or two behind. It feels as if the momentum is with Bamford at the moment – and he has simply got to start.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
