Patrick Bamford’s Potential Leeds United Exit Comes with Warning for Blackburn Rovers
The January transfer window is in full swing, and Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford has been linked with a move away from Elland Road. One of the clubs reportedly interested in signing Bamford is Blackburn Rovers, managed by John Eustace.
However, former England midfielder Carlton Palmer has urged Blackburn Rovers to exercise caution when considering a move for Bamford. Palmer believes that Bamford’s injury record makes him a risky signing, and that West Brom winger Jed Wallace would be a more reliable option.
Bamford’s Injury Woes
Bamford has struggled with injuries throughout his career, and this season has been no exception. The striker has made only a handful of appearances for Leeds United, and has been unable to establish himself as a regular starter.
Palmer’s Warning
“I’m a big admirer of Patrick Bamford, but again, apparently he’s picked up an injury to his hamstring,” Palmer said. “He’s just not played enough football of late, and he’s picked up too many injuries, so I think that may force his hand.”
Palmer believes that Bamford’s injury record makes him a high-risk signing for any club. “He’s not going to come for short change, and he’s not a player that I’m going to be able to rely on week-in-week-out,” Palmer said.
Alternative Option
Instead of pursuing Bamford, Palmer recommends that Blackburn Rovers consider signing West Brom winger Jed Wallace. “Jed Wallace is a more realistic signing from West Bromwich Albion, he is their club captain, he’s out of the picture at the moment and he wants to play regular first team football,” Palmer said.
Wallace’s Availability
Wallace has found himself out of favor at West Brom, and Palmer believes that the winger would be eager to join a new club. “I can see the Baggies looking to move him out and using that money to bring in other players,” Palmer said.
Eustace’s Comments
Blackburn Rovers manager John Eustace has confirmed that Bamford is one of the players on his radar. “Patrick is a very good player, I played with him at Derby, a long time ago when he started out,” Eustace said. “He’s a consistent performer at this level, he plays for a huge club in Leeds.”
However, Eustace was cautious in his assessment of Bamford’s potential signing. “But there will be lots of names thrown towards me and I’ll just say they’re good players,” Eustace said.
Farke’s Comments
Leeds United manager Daniel Farke has insisted that Bamford is part of his plans to help the Whites return to the Premier League. “It’s beneficial for him that he is, since several weeks or so, back in the team training and works on his fitness level, sharpness,” Farke said.
Farke’s comments suggest that Bamford still has a role to play at Leeds United, and that the club is not actively seeking to sell him. However, the striker’s injury record and lack of playing time may ultimately force the club’s hand.
Conclusion
Patrick Bamford’s potential exit from Leeds United comes with a warning for Blackburn Rovers. While Bamford is undoubtedly a talented player, his injury record makes him a high-risk signing.
Blackburn Rovers would do well to consider alternative options, such as West Brom winger Jed Wallace. Wallace’s availability and desire to play regular first-team football make him a more reliable signing than Bamford.
Ultimately, the decision to sign Bamford or Wallace will depend on Blackburn Rovers’ transfer strategy and priorities. However, Palmer’s warning serves as a reminder of the risks involved in signing a player with Bamford’s injury record.