Former Leeds United striker Jermaine Beckford has praised Patrick Bamford for his part in the current side, and believes they wouldn’t be where they are without him.
The former Chelsea striker has established himself as Marcelo Bielsa’s first choice frontman this season, having made 42 appearances in all competitions.
Bamford has scored 15 goals during that time, including the opener during Saturday’s 3-1 win over Blackburn Rovers which further strengthened Leeds' hopes of promotion back to the Premier League.
The 26-year-old’s scoring record has been questioned by some rival supporters though, with some arguing he should have more goals to his name if he’s playing for the top side in the Championship.
Beckford though believes the Whites owe much of their success to the way Bamford has led the line this season.
On Leeds’ title hopes, Beckford told talkSPORT: “I think they’ve been the best footballing side in the league this season. Not just because I’ve got my Leeds United hat on, but because I genuinely believe it.
“The way they play football, the intensity they play at is really, really good, and a really, really high level of quality as well.
“A lot of people are saying they don’t score enough goals, there are players like Patrick Bamford who should be scoring more.
“But in my opinion, I think Patrick Bamford has had a phenomenal season. I think he’s done really, really well.
“Without him being the focal point, Leeds United don’t create as many opportunities or chances as they do, and they don’t play the same type of football.”
Bielsa’s side will be aiming to restore their six-point advantage over third-placed Brentford tomorrow as they host Stoke City at Elland Road.
The Bees’ narrowed the Whites’ advantage by beating Charlton 2-1 on Tuesday night, meaning Leeds will need 10 points from their final five games of the season to guarantee their return to the Premier League.
