Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink says playing behind closed doors has benefited Patrick Bamford this season.
The Leeds United striker has been a revelation in the Premier League this season, with his impressive form taking many by surprise after he came in for criticism from fans in the Championship last season.
After scoring the winner from the penalty spot against Burnley, Bamford revealed he had his eyes on the Premier League golden boot this season, arguing he needs to set his sights high in order to succeed.
It was a sign of the renewed confidence Bamford is playing with this season and former Leeds striker Hasselbaink believes the absence of fans has helped the 27-year-old in this regard as it has shielded him from criticism.
Speaking on Amazon Prime, the Hasselbaink argued that Bamford has changed very little to how he plays football but has instead added a finishing touch to his game that he lacked last season.
"His finishing," Hasselbaink said when asked what Bamford has improved this season.
"Last year, he had lots of chances in every game and it didn't really work out for him.
"His movement and his knowing where to have always been good. He's in the right spot and always on the shoulder of the defenders.
"His movement has always been brilliant, it was that last little bit that he needed and what he's doing absolutely magnificently this year.
"He's very confident. The fans not being here, especially at Leeds, has helped him a little bit to gain his confidence back.
"He's been a very important person for the Leeds team."
