Martin Keown makes Patrick Bamford claim as Leeds lose to Crawley

Leeds United suffered an embarrassing 3-0 defeat to League Two side Crawley Town in the FA Cup on Sunday and Martin Keown underlined the importance of Patrick Bamford – during commentary on BBC’s live coverage.

Bamford, 27, has been crucial to Leeds this season – scoring 10 goals in 17 Premier League matches but the ex-Chelsea man was left in Yorkshire as the Whites travelled south to Crawley. The League Two side won 3-0.

Spain international Rodrigo started up front in his natural position but he failed to make an impact. Bamford was one of a number of players to stay at home, along with Illan Meslier, Luke Ayling, Stuart Dallas and Mateusz Klich.

During commentary on BBC, Keown claimed that the 3-0 defeat underlined the importance of Bamford to Marcelo Bielsa’s side – despite the £10million (Mail) signing being heavily criticised in the past for his lack of goals.

“Sometimes when a player is missing you realise how good he is. Bamford will be fuming, probably kicking the TV. He did need a rest of course,” Keown claimed, as Crawley produced the result of the round.

 

(Photo by Mark Leech/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)

TBR’s view – People are starting to understand Bamford role

In Bielsa’s side, Bamford is absolutely pivotal. Not only does he score goals – at a ratio better than one every two games this season – but he offers Leeds a presence. He occupies two players, giving Leeds an advantage elsewhere.

His link-up play, his tenacity and aggression, his technical ability that allows him to join in the passing in and around the box – it makes Leeds tick. He has been doing this ever since Bielsa came in, but never got the credit.

Now, he is finally beginning to earn the plaudits that he deserved.

(Photo by MOLLY DARLINGTON/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)