Bielsa names reason why Leeds striker’s season not defined by Euros
Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa feels Patrick Bamford can still take a lot from the season even if he does not make England’s Euro 2020 squad this summer.
The Argentinian was speaking after watching his side beat Southampton 2-0 at St Mary’s. Bamford opened the scoring with an excellent finish on 73 minutes. He poked the ball through the legs of Saints keeper Alex McCarthy much to the dismay of the 8,000 Southampton fans.
It was an even contest and Ralph Hasenuttl’s men had numerus shots. But it was the visitors’ quality in the final third that was the difference.
Tyler Roberts made sure of the points deep into stoppage time after Bamford’s initial shot had been saved. Saints may count themselves a bit unlucky not to have taken something from the game.
But Bamford’s class told in the end. The 27-year-old has yet to play for England. He is under consideration for this summer’s delayed showpiece.
Tuesday’s goal at St Mary’s was his 16th of the campaign but it is unclear if Gareth Southgate will give him the nod.
Regardless of what happens, Bielsa believes it has been a watershed season for the Grantham-born ace.
“Patrick had a very generous performance with a lot of effort and he’s had a season in which he’s shone and I’m sure he’ll be very positive about the campaign he’s had be what may,” he said.
“Everything that he’s achieved this season is because of the dedication and effort that he’s put in to show off his abilities.”
Roberts puts gloss on Bamford opener
Leeds victory guaranteed them a top-10 finish in their first season in the Premier League for 16 years. While two of their fellow promoted sides have slipped back into the Championship, Leeds seem at home in the top light.
They have moved up to eighth place in the standings and have played some excellent football at times. It has been a collective effort that has seen them do so well.
And Roberts’ first Premier League goal summed up the way that everyone has chipped in.
“I was happy that he scored because he had played many games and hadn’t managed to do it and the team in the second half looked a lot more like the team that it is,” added the South American tactician.
Leeds end their campaign at home to relegated West Brom on Sunday.
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