Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford's return from injury is now 'imminent', according to former Whites and England goalkeeper Paul Robinson.
The Lowdown: Bamford injured again
The Englishman has suffered cruel luck in the fitness department of late, having enjoyed such a memorable spell leading the line for Leeds in 2020/21.
Bamford has been limited to just two starts in the Premier League this season, as he continues to struggle with the injuries which held him back so frustratingly last term.
The striker scored a welcome hat-trick for the Under-21s last week, however, suggesting that his comeback is edging closer all the time.
The Latest: Return now 'imminent'
Speaking to MOT Leeds News, Sky Sports pundit Robinson described Bamford's return as 'imminent':
"Even if it’s the Under-21s, it’s nice to see him hitting the back of the net again.
"Yes, it’s obviously nowhere near the level of a Premier League game. But the fact he’s playing, the fact he’s fit and the fact he’s scoring goals is a huge boost for Leeds fans.
"With the way they played against Brentford, they need him, Luke Ayling and Liam Cooper back. The fact Bamford is playing and scoring goals again means his arrival is imminent."
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The Verdict: Massive player this season
This is a huge boost for Leeds, with Bamford such an influential figure when he is fully fit and firing, having scored 17 Premier League goals back in 2020/21 - Jurgen Klopp even described him as 'exceptional' during that run, which speaks volumes.
The striker's ability to hold the ball up and bring others into play is unrivalled in the squad and he now possesses genuine experience at the top level.
There may be concerns that these injuries may have affected Bamford so negatively that he has peaked as a footballer, but only an extended spell back in the team will give a more definitive answer to that question.