Michael Brown sends message to Leeds fans regarding Patrick Bamford, makes promotion prediction

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Michael Brown has urged Leeds United fans to get behind striker Patrick Bamford on Quest’s coverage of the EFL after plenty of criticism surrounding the striker, following his near-perfect display against West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday night.

The 26-year-old has seen the pressure pile up on his shoulders, as Leeds fans continue to ask why the striker is unable to find the back of the net on a more regular basis. Eddie Nketiah is waiting in the wings on the bench.

Leeds ended a sticky patch of form to beat West Brom 1-0, with Gjanni Alioski’s effort taking a touch off of ex-Leeds defender Kyle Bartley. But Bamford was impeccable throughout the match, with his work rate and hold-up play key to the win.

Former Leeds midfielder Brown was impressed with Bamford and has told fans to support the talismanic striker now, after proving that he is in the team or more than just his goals. He also gave a promotion prediction at the end of the show.

“He’s had his criticism,” Brown said. “But on Tuesday he has justified why Bielsa pick him. His work rate, his energy, his strength. You could see at the end that he has a smile on his face and now it is time to get behind him.”

Brown was asked who he thought would gain promotion automatically, and he responded by backing “Leeds and West Brom”.

TBR’s view – With restored confidence, can Bamford now shine?

In the last few games, Bamford’s confidence had dropped. The expectancy from fans was for Bamford to score goal after goal, replicating the likes of Chris Wood or Ross McCormack. But he simply is not that kind of player.

Not at least under Bielsa. The Argentine has placed his faith in the striker continually, and it was finally made clear to Leeds fans on Tuesday just why Bielsa continues to pick Bamford over Nketiah.

On social media, there has been nothing but praise for Bamford after Tuesday night. That renewed confidence may give Bamford the belief to finally go on and start putting the ball in the back of the net – like Wood did in 2016-17.