Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford has paid tribute to Marcelo Bielsa following the Whites' latest success in the Championship on their way to the title.
Bielsa's men secured promotion and the league title in the last few days after beating Barnsley on Thursday before their fate was sealed thanks to defeats for West Brom and Brentford at Huddersfield Town and Stoke City respectively.
Leeds continued the good vibes at Derby County this afternoon by pulling off a 3-1 win and Bamford waxed lyrical about Bielsa post-match, though he did admit that the Argentine can be forthright with him.
Bamford told Sky Sports: "(I owe Bielsa) everything. I can’t speak highly enough about him. There’s been times this year where I’ve been through rough patches, maybe not scoring the goals, but offering other things to the team.
"He’s always been the one to support me. I owe him a lot. I can’t really put into words how much it means with the amount of trust he’s put into me.
"He’s had a go at me a fair few times, and I’ve probably deserved it! But he’s always stuck by me and I just really hope he stays next year."
Bamford also admitted that after some ups and down with Leeds that he is pleased to be able to prove himself in the Premier League with the club.
He added: "I think so (point to prove in Premier League). I feel like I’ve never really had a fair crack of the whip at it. I think the easiest way to get accounted for in the Premier League is probably to take a team up from the Championship, then you get your chance.
"Fortunately, I’ve been able to do that. I said to my mate when I signed for Leeds, I don’t think I realise myself that being the number nine for Leeds is a privilege. It’s also such a big thing. Taking them up just makes it extra special."
