Frank McAvennie has given his reaction to the news that Patrick Bamford has signed a new deal at Leeds United.
The Lowdown: Bamford signs
As confirmed in August by the Elland Road faithful on their official website, Bamford has signed a new five-year contract with them.
This comes after a very impressive 2020/21 season in the Premier League, in which he played in every single game, scoring no fewer than 17 goals and making a further eight assists (Transfermarkt).
The Latest: McAvennie on Bamford deal
Speaking to Football Insider, former Celtic and West Ham United striker McAvennie admitted that he was 'shocked' that Bamford was not given a new deal sooner, but claimed that it was a 'great' move by Marcelo Bielsa's team to tie him down:
“I’m shocked it didn’t happen sooner.
“He’s the main man for Leeds and he will have been gutted the fans weren’t in there last season.
“Elland Road is magnificent when it’s full and bouncing, it’s a great venue that deserves great players.
“Bamford was that last season, he scored a load of goals and proved everyone wrong.
“It’s a simple move to give him a deal but a great one as well.
“He played so many games too so he’s obviously fit as anything. They need to keep him fit this season.”
The Verdict: Great move
As McAvennie points out, it is a great move by the Yorkshire club to get Bamford to sign a new contract.
Described as an 'exceptional' player by Jurgen Klopp back in April, the striker showed his qualities last term and has carried on his form into this campaign, scoring one goal and supplying one assist in three matches in the top flight so far (Transfermarkt).
Bamford's form has now been recognised by Gareth Southgate, who has recently called the 27-year-old up to the England squad, and deservedly so.