Joe Rodon has given his verdict on Patrick Bamford’s display in Leeds United’s crucial victory over Middlesbrough.
Leeds United returned to winning ways at the perfect time on Tuesday night by narrowly defeating Middlesbrough 1-0.
Dan James grabbed the decisive goal with less than two minutes on the clock and Leeds managed to hold on as the home side pushed for a leveller in the tense closing stages.
After a week that threatened to become a crisis, Daniel Farke’s side are actually now back on top of the Championship table after Sheffield United lost to Millwall and Burnley could only draw at Derby County.
It was a massive three points, but it should have been so much easier as Ao Tanaka and Patrick Bamford both saw goals wrongly disallowed for offside.
The decision was particularly harsh on Bamford, who was denied a fantastic first goal of the season.
Yet, Joe Rodon was left very impressed by his ‘outstanding’ cameo at the Riverside.
Patrick Bamford impresses Joe Rodon in cameo
Rodon told Sky Sports after the game: “I think, of course, every team in this league offers something different and it’s challenging.
“The most important thing is that the team comes together and we ride through the wave. Like you saw tonight, I thought the team showed great personality.
“Even the subs that came in, I thought Pat Bamford was absolutely outstanding when he came on and that’s what it’s going to take. Everyone.
“Overall, delighted with getting back on the winning side.”
Leeds United fans left dazzled by Patrick Bamford
Just like he did at Luton on Saturday, Bamford came on and offered more threat than Joel Piroe had managed in the entire game before him.
It was only the striker’s second appearance since New Year’s Day after dealing with a troublesome injury but he looked sharp and energetic as he worked hard going back as well as forward.
It wasn’t only Rodon left delighted by Bamford’s display but Leeds supporters have been hailing him with praise on social media as well.
One fan wrote on X, formerly Twitter: “How good has Bamford been in these two cameos? SO impressive tonight.”
Those thoughts were answered by another, who said: “Tonight felt like a reminder of what a player Bamford is when he’s fit. Might not always be as healthy as we want him to be but, when he’s able to, he can make the difference.”
“Got to say that Bamford was outstanding when he came on,” another added, while one supporter showered him with the highest praise: “Oh, btw that performance from Bamford was genuinely one of our best from any of our players this season.”
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