“We would have been promoted if he was around…” – Leeds United Manager Daniel Farke Insists the ABSENCE of This Player Made Leeds Lose Promotion to EPL….

Daniel Farke: Leeds United Would Be in Premier League if Patrick Bamford Was Available

Leeds United manager Daniel Farke believes his team would have secured promotion to the Premier League last season if striker Patrick Bamford had remained fit during the Championship run-in.

Farke’s assertion is backed by statistics, which show Leeds’ improved performance when Bamford starts. Last season, Leeds averaged 2.4 points per game with Bamford in the lineup, compared to 1.74 points per game without him.

Bamford’s Influence

Bamford’s presence on the pitch brings more than just goals. He works tirelessly, occupying defenders and creating space for his teammates. His experience and smart playmaking ability make him a valuable asset to the team.

Farke praised Bamford, saying: “He’s a top-class player. I’m 100% sure with a fully fit Patrick Bamford, we would be in the Premier League… He’s an unbelievably smart guy, an experienced guy.”

Leeds’ Current Form

Despite losing key players Georginio Rutter, Crysencio Summerville, and Archie Gray in the summer, Leeds has made a solid start to the 2024-25 season. They currently sit third in the Championship table, three points better off than at the same stage last season.

With Bamford now third choice behind in-form strikers Joel Piroe and Mateo Joseph, Farke faces a dilemma. When to give Bamford game time and how to integrate him into the team without disrupting their momentum.

Farke’s Challenge

Farke must balance Bamford’s return to fitness with the team’s current form. He acknowledged Bamford’s struggles with injuries and the need to rebuild his fitness.

“Patrick has been struggling in the last months with injuries, and this is what we have to rebuild,” Farke said.

The manager’s appreciation for Bamford is clear, but he must consider the team’s overall performance and make decisions that will drive Leeds toward promotion.

As the season unfolds, Leeds fans will watch with interest to see how Farke manages Bamford’s return and whether the striker can recapture his form and help drive the team to Premier League promotion.

With Bamford’s potential return to fitness and form, Leeds United’s prospects for promotion look brighter. Farke’s challenge is to integrate Bamford seamlessly into the team and maintain their momentum.