Fleeting memories of Patrick Bamford’s cameo at the start of Leeds United’s Norwich City win will remind you of some of the most effective football seen under Jesse Marsch. The Canaries are the worst team in the Premier League and offered little resistance, but Bamford’s sheer presence changed the tone of the Leeds attack.
The number nine was a focal point and landmark the rest of the side moved around, a natural threat inside the penalty box. The injury narrative has been well told, especially the cruel nature of his return and subsequent breakdown.
When Leeds tentatively circled the final two matches of the season as a return target for Bamford, many hoped he would not be needed. All being well, the Whites would be safe from relegation and the England striker would have a clear, pressure-free run at the summer with a proper close season.
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However, it would appear Leeds are not in that comfortable position everyone desired, despite the incredible return of 11 points from 15. Everton and, more so, Burnley have turned up the heat and with three of the top four to play, that final pair of matches could have a lot riding on them for the Whites.
Thankfully, last week’s update from Marsch keeps Bamford firmly in the picture and as an option which can still be used by the American, even if he is likely to be rusty. Asked if the Brighton & Hove Albion and Brentford games remained possible, Marsch said: "I do think it’s feasible.
“He’s exactly on track for where we’d hoped he would be. We’re trying to be cautious and aggressive at the same time and that’s always the balancing act, a little bit of getting guys back.
“One of the things you have to give credit to with the medical team here is there are statistics that show we’ve had a lot of injuries over the past year, but we get players to return quicker than a lot of places do.
“That’s a credit to the medical staff and what they’ve been able to accomplish. For example, Junior Firpo came back much quicker than we had thought he would so I would say I’m cautiously optimistic we can get Patrick back and available for those last two matches like we hoped."
Despite the excellent results and points return, it has not been an easy transition for Marsch on the field as he looks to bed in his philosophies with the group. The total absence of any attacking threat at Selhurst Park on Monday only shone a brighter light on Rob Price’s medical department.
Bamford is due out on the pitches again this week. Fingers are crossed for Marsch’s next update ahead of the Manchester City clash. Bamford may just be the breath of fresh air needed for that final push next month.
