In a surprising move, Leeds United manager Daniel Farke has announced that striker Patrick Bamford is not part of his plans for the upcoming Premier League season. This decision comes after Bamford was notably absent from the squad in the recent pre-season draw against Manchester United.

The Decision

Farke emphasized the importance of an open and honest conversation with Bamford, acknowledging the player's contributions over the past seven years. "I had a really open and honest conversation with Patrick, which was important," Farke stated. "He knows how much I rate him as a player and I would have preferred a fit Patrick Bamford for the last two seasons."

Bamford's Legacy

Since joining Leeds United from Middlesbrough in 2018 for £7 million, Bamford has made 205 appearances, scoring 60 goals. He played a pivotal role in the club's promotion-winning campaigns and excelled during their first stint back in the Premier League under Marcelo Bielsa in 2020, netting 17 goals.

Future Plans

Farke confirmed that Bamford would not be involved in Leeds' pre-season camp in Germany and would train with the under-21 squad upon their return. "I will treat this situation as respectfully as possible, but there comes a moment when you can't carry on with five or six strikers," Farke added. "Right now, we are talking about what we do to retain his fitness levels."

Impact on the Team

This decision marks a significant shift in Leeds United's strategy as they prepare for the upcoming Premier League season. Farke's focus on streamlining the squad highlights the competitive nature of top-flight football and the need for strategic planning to achieve success.

Conclusion

As Leeds United moves forward, the exclusion of Patrick Bamford from Farke's plans underscores the evolving dynamics within the team. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this strategic decision impacts the club's performance in the Premier League.