Former Nottingham Forest striker Patrick Bamford has potentially damaged his reputation, as well as Leeds United’s promotion hopes.
Ex-Arsenal and England midfielder Paul Merson says Bamford might have “stitched” up his team for the Championship’s run-in with his role in Sunday’s controversial 1-1 draw at home to Aston Villa.
The 25-year-old is facing a possible two-match ban for simulation after theatrically falling to the ground clutching his face, despite apparently minimal contact to the chest by Villa’s Anwar El Ghazi, who was subsequently sent off.
EFL provide update on Nottingham Forest's final day opponents Bolton Wanderers
Bamford is waiting to discover if he will be charged by the Football Association with “successful deception of a match official”.
A two-game suspension would be the likely punishment if he is found guilty.
That would see the forward miss Leeds’ final fixture of the season at Ipswich Town this weekend, along with the first leg of the play-offs.
Commenting on the incident, Merson told Sky Sports’ Debate programme: “Patrick Bamford, what’s he doing?
“He could stitch Leeds up for the rest of the season, because he’s their only centre forward. He could miss the play-offs.
“Do they know there’s a million cameras there?
“They have done great this season, Leeds. Now they’re going to lose one of their best players.
“On his day he’s a special player. Now he’s spoilt it and probably his reputation.”
