Patrick Bamford explains what Ian Poveda is doing differently on Leeds training pitch

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Patrick Bamford has told Leeds United’s official podcast that Ian Poveda was turning up late to training at the beginning of the season – but after a word from the senior squad members, he is now one of the earliest in.

Poveda, 20, joined Leeds in January 2020 on a free transfer from Manchester City and has since been a regular in the club’s matchday squad – making 13 senior appearances for the Whites. He has also been a regular in the Under-23 side.

The England youth international has managed just one substitute outing in the last five Premier League matches, but remains a pivotal part of the team. His smiley, feel-good attitude has seen him become a favourite among Leeds supporters.

But Bamford told the official Leeds podcast on Spotify that Poveda was turning up late to training at the start of the season – but has since improved that after being told to change his ways. Now, he is one of the first players in, doing things by himself.

“Ian Poveda, the start of this season he was turning up late,” Bamford said. “He lived in Manchester and he was struggling a bit with the traffic. The lads put an arm round him and said ‘look, you want to break into the team, you’ve got to change that’.

“To be fair, he listens, he is a good, young lad. Believe it or not, the fitness stuff is up at 7.30am and he will be out on the pitch already doing stuff on his own. God knows what time he leaves his house. He’s turned it around, he’s reliable with that now.”

TBR’s view – Poveda deserves a chance, surely starts against Crawley

Unfortunately for £9k-a-week (Spotrac) Poveda, the form of both Jack Harrison and Raphinha has been incredible. Harrison remains one of the Premier League’s most creative players and netted against West Brom – as did Raphinha on Wednesday.

Poveda needs a break – and the third round of the FA Cup will give the ex-Manchester City man a chance to shine from the off. the likes of Leif Davis, Pablo Hernandez, Tyler Roberts and Helder Costa will also be looking at the game on January 10.