Former Chelsea and Fulham midfielder Steve Sidwell believes keeping Patrick Bamford fit will be key in deciding the fate of Leeds United's survival bid. The Whites forward marked his return to the starting line-up with a goal, with his deflected strike cannoning in off the underside of the bar to equalise after Alexis MacAllister put Brighton a goal to the good.
The Whites striker has struggled with injuries once again this season, with just two goals in 18 Premier League outings. The 29-year-old moved onto 49 goals in a Leeds United shirt as a result of that strike, but will be hoping his injury problems are now behind him as he looks to fire Javi Gracia's side to safety.
Bamford says he's very confident Leeds can stave off relegation for a second consecutive season, after surviving on the final day in the 2021-22 season.
READ ALSO: Javi Gracia is seeing Leeds United penny drop on problem Jesse Marsch identified on his way out
Sidwell has stressed the importance of keeping Bamford fit, despite looking rusty in the draw against Roberto De Zerbi's side. That lack of sharpness is somewhat understandable given he's played 90 minutes of Premier League action on just one occasions this season.
Sidwell told BT Sport: “Bamford.. he got the goal with a deflection but he was a little bit rusty. The ball was coming up to him normally when he can get hold of it and bring players in, but it got away from him.
"He worked the channels well, worked Dunk and Webster. Him being fit and keeping him fit again is key.”
READ NEXT:
- Leeds United survival rests on Javi Gracia's ability to find what they've missed all season long
- Patrick Bamford bullish over Leeds United survival hopes as he opens up on 'calm' Javi Gracia
- 'Missed opportunity' - National media round-up after Leeds United draw with Brighton
- Leeds United news as Brighton's Solly March issues 'frustrating' verdict on Jack Harrison equaliser
- Javi Gracia's first words on Leeds United's Brighton draw as Whites' character shows at Elland Road
