Patrick Bamford has not been included in the Leeds United squad for the final day showdown against Brentford. Jesse Marsch confirmed he tested positive for Covid-19 as he was on the brink of a potential long-awaited return.
"With Patrick, he was fit and ready to go and then two days ago he tested positive for Covid and he's been really really sick and not been able to get out of bed," the Leeds boss said ahead of the relegation decider. "So it's obviously unfortunate for him and for us. He wasn't even in position to travel, but bringing him wouldn't have been safe with him testing positive."
The other big news from the line-up announcement is the inclusion of Sam Greenwood in place of Mateusz Klich in the only change from the late draw against Brighton. There is also a return to the bench for Tyler Roberts after he has seemingly fully recovered from the hamstring surgery he had following the defeat to Leicester.
Read more: Brentford vs Leeds United LIVE: Confirmed team news as Patrick Bamford absent for relegation decider
Without Klich in the side, it potentially leaves Kalvin Phillips in his more familiar single-pivot role in front of the Whites defence. It seems likely that Rodrigo will be operating in a deeper midfield position with Greenwood and Joe Gelhardt further up the pitch.
It’s a huge afternoon for both youngsters who have shown their worth when they have been included this season. If Leeds are to have any chance of leapfrogging Burnley and securing Premier League safety this afternoon, they will have to be at their very best.
They will be hoping to get the better of former Whites defender Pontus Jansson who will be in the heart of the Brentford backline. Although, that task would be made easier had Bamford been available to play in West London.
Leeds supporters are, unsurprisingly, frustrated to see that he won’t be involved. Here is what a few of them had to say on social media.
