Leeds United captain Liam Cooper has revealed what former Nottingham Forest striker Patrick Bamford said to his teammates after his moment of controversy.
The Whites forward was banned for “successful deception of a match official” during a 1-1 draw with Aston Villa last month.
Bamford theatrically fell to the ground clutching his face in the Championship clash at Elland Road, despite seemingly minimal contact to the chest by Villa’s Anwar El Ghazi, who was subsequently sent off.
Derby County boss Frank Lampard 'in the running' for Brighton job
El Ghazi’s red card was later rescinded, while Bamford was suspended for two games.
He missed his team’s 3-2 defeat at Ipswich Town on the last day of the regular season and then the first leg of their play-offs semi-final against Derby County at the weekend.
The 25-year-old is available again for the return fixture against the Rams on Wednesday night, with Marcelo Bielsa’s men going into the match at Elland Road Derby County boss Frank Lampard 'in the running' for Brighton job
Cooper says Bamford’s teammates have forgiven the Reds academy product, adding Bamford was quick to say sorry for his actions.
“Pat came straight in and apologised to me and the staff,” he said.
“Sometimes in the heat of the moment you make stupid decisions, but for the last 10 days he’s worked hard.
“We all know what he can do.
“He’s got this unbelievable confidence in him.”
Leeds boss Bielsa has already spoken about the importance of having Bamford back in contention, saying: “It’s always important to have at your disposal the players that have played during the season.”
