Javi Gracia says it's important Patrick Bamford stays "mentally strong" during the Premier League climax after he missed a gilt-edged chance in Tuesday's 1-1 draw against Leicester City.
Bamford was presented with a golden opportunity to take all three points in the dying stages at Elland Road, but fluffed his lines with the goal at his mercy.
The miss highlighted both his lack of form and confidence at the moment, but Gracia insists the Leeds United forward must maintain a strong mindset as the Whites aim to stave off relegation.
Read more: Every word Javi Gracia said on Sinisterra, Gnonto, Bamford, Bournemouth, Leeds United problems
Asked if had a message for Bamford following the miss on Tuesday, Gracia said: "To be strong, mentally strong, it's important in this part of the season. As you say in the last game, we've had two clear chances that at the end of the press conference, I told you maybe that goal is offside. But it wasn't offside.
"We had two very good chances to win the game, Leicester created two or three clear chances from our mistakes as well. But we had a chance at the end, we didn't take it, but we'll try to do it next time."
Bamford's 50th Leeds goal was overshadowed by the humiliating 5-1 defeat at the hands of Crystal Palace earlier this month. But his opener against the Eagles was only his third Premier League goal of the season, and just his fifth in all competitions.
READ NEXT:
- Leeds United supporters can see only one solution following Luis Sinisterra injury blow
- Javi Gracia delivers Leeds United injury hammer blow as key man ruled out for rest of season
- Sean Dyche bemoans bad habit Everton can't kick after Leeds United relegation rivals lose again
- Leeds United rivals' boss admits table looks 'difficult' following last defeat