Phil Hay has admitted he can't see Patrick Bamford starting for Leeds United in their midweek Premier League clash.

The Lowdown: Bamford still injured

Much like the majority of last season and this campaign, it appears that Leeds will once again be without their star striker, who is still recovering from an injury sustained during the World Cup break.

The striker has only managed to start 11 league games since the beginning of last season, which has coincided with Leeds' poor run of form and their battle against relegation.

Bamford wasn't in the squad to face Newcastle United last weekend and is still said to be unavailable for the midweek relegation clash against West Ham United.

The Latest: West Ham game come too soon

Hay has been speaking on the latest episode of The Phil Hay Show about how he doesn't expect to see Bamford at Elland Road on Wednesday evening in what is a huge game for The Whites.

He said: "No sign of Bamford [against Newcastle] - not expecting him to play against West Ham, either."

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The Verdict: Leeds must cut ties with Bamford

While Bamford, who has been hailed as 'exceptional', has indeed served Leeds well since he's been at the club, notching 45 goals in 130 appearances across all competitions, he is far too injury-prone for a side wanting to play - and stay - in the Premier League.

It's not even just the injuries, as the fact Bamford is now getting older means his body will naturally take longer to recover, and if the club want to maintain the high-pressing style that Jesse Marsch has implemented, Bamford should perhaps be moved on.

Bamford has tried his best to get back fit and able to feature in a few games, but he just can't stay fit for long enough, and there's no way Leeds can afford to carry him and his wages on for much longer if he continues to struggle for fitness.