Patrick Bamford could be included in some capacity this afternoon as Leeds United host Brighton & Hove Albion in a crucial Premier League clash. Last season’s top-scorer has had a nightmare season hampered by injury, racking up just 100 minutes in 2022.
He was subbed off and ended up in tears just 22 minutes into Leeds’ 3-2 win at Wolves in March, but Whites manager Jesse Marsch has hinted he could be involved for this afternoon’s game against the Seagulls - even if only from the bench.
Daniel James’ red card in Wednesday’s defeat at home to Chelsea makes him unavailable for the rest of the season, alongside Luke Ayling who was also dismissed the previous game at Arsenal. They join Adam Forshaw, Crysencio Summerville, Tyler Roberts and Stuart Dallas who are all injured.
READ MORE: Leeds United injury and suspension list as Patrick Bamford closes in on return
Marsch has opted for a back five against the top sides, but may be looking to revert to his preferred 4-2-2-2 formation as Leeds push for a crucial three points. Liam Cooper and Junior Firpo are likely to start, with Cooper’s defensive partner and the right-back spot up for grabs.
Jamie Shackleton could be deployed at right-back, with one of Diego Llorente or Robin Koch in the middle, although Marsch has been inclined to stabilise the defence with all four centre-backs across the back-four if needed.
Lewis Bate was brilliant at Arsenal in difficult circumstances but drifted into anonymity against Chelsea, overrun by their midfield. That could open the door for Mateusz Klich to return to the starting lineup, having consistently impressed since the arrival of Marsch.
Raphinha will be praying he doesn’t have to play at right wing-back again and should be deployed further up the field where he can provide the magic - no, not the long throw. Jack Harrison will likely take up the other flank.
Leeds fans will be desperate to see Joe Gelhardt start again, having been given little opportunity to prove himself at the Emirates. He may have considered himself unfortunate not to have kept his place for Chelsea, with Rodrigo struggling to lead the line as a physical presence.
A back four would open up a place further forward, however, with the Spanish veteran producing some brilliant performances behind a focal point. Bamford is unlikely to start this afternoon but could be deployed in some capacity if called upon.
Full Leeds United squad: Meslier, Klaesson, Shackleton, Llorente, Cresswell, Koch, Cooper, Struijk, Firpo, Hjelde, Phillips, Kenneh, Bate, Klich, Rodrigo, Raphinha, Harrison, Gelhardt, Greenwood, Bamford
