Patrick Bamford has told BT Sport’s Michael Calvin Football Podcast that Leeds boss Javi Gracia is “meticulous” in his detail and tactics behind the scenes – claiming there are similarities between him and legend Marcelo Bielsa.
The striker was at the centre of Leeds’ 1-1 draw with Leicester on Tuesday, missing a golden chance to take Leeds away from the relegation zone in injury time. Leeds are now in a situation where relegation is growing in likelihood.
Gracia has managed Leeds now for 10 Premier League matches, winning three times, drawing twice and losing five. A total of 11 points in 10 games. Leeds have now lost four of their last six games, after the draw against Leicester.
But Bamford was full of praise for the ex-Watford and Valencia manager in his analysis this week. He says there is a likeness between Gracia and Bielsa, and having worked with a plethora of different bosses, he has been impressed.
“Very meticulous, not too dissimilar from Marcelo in terms of detail in how he looks at the game. But as a person, i’ve had a lot of managers, he’s the calmest manager,” Bamford explained, when asked by Michael Calvin
“He takes the heat off, he knows how to take the pressure off, and keep us calm,” Bamford continued. Sometimes, when you look to the touchline, you’ve got a manager who’s like that – I’ve been really impressed with him.”
Bamford: Leeds boss Gracia meticulous and has Bielsa similarities
If Gracia has some Bielsa similarities, then he really needs to bring them out in the remaining five games. Leeds are staring relegation in the face. While we sit in 16th place, the run in is tough. Bournemouth away is next on Sunday.
Then, Leeds go to Manchester City, play Newcastle at home, travel to West Ham and then welcome Tottenham to Elland Road. Leeds need to pull a shock out of the bag. We could easily finish the season on our current points total.
