It’s turned out to be quite the move so far, hasn’t it? Six days prior to the beginning of Leeds United’s Championship campaign this season, the club announced the signing of Patrick Bamford from Middlesborough on a four-year deal.
Marcelo Bielsa’s second permanent signing at United added much-needed depth up front to a side that could only boast Kemar Roofe as a natural striker before the new arrival.
The Elland Road faithful were delighted with the move and many let their feelings be known for everyone to see.
Absolutely thrilled with that one, nice one.
— FionaCK (@FionaCK) July 31, 2018
Get in!
— Lee Thompson (@lufcThommo) July 31, 2018
Pleased its over the line, seemed to be dragging on a bit.
— Andy Hargreaves (@andylufc1919) July 31, 2018
Proper signing
— Aidan jackson (@Aidan909) July 31, 2018
Boom
— Liam Collins (@liamcollins97) July 31, 2018
The depth that Bamford’s arrival brought to the striking role is what allows sides to challenge in the upper echelons of the division as United have done this campaign. As a result, many fans seemed to foresee this and made predictions ahead of the season.
Announce promotion
— Benjamin Thornton (@BenjaminTlufc) July 31, 2018
— Baz Evs (@bazevs) July 31, 2018
Announce promotion!
— LockyLUFC🏆 (@Bradley_Lock) July 31, 2018
In contrast to United fans’ joy, some Boro fans could not hide their dissapointment in losing a player who had excelled during two one-year stints at the North East outfit.
Sad to see you leave paddy. Good luck on your new adventure in your career UTB
— Pete Robbo 🇦🇹 (@peterob01353594) July 31, 2018
Absolutely gutted he’s gone! Such a gifted striker. Look after him !!
— Andrew Sawyer (@AndySawyer29) July 31, 2018
Upon his arrival in West Yorkshire, he found himself playing second-fiddle to Roofe as he made numerous substitute appearances in the League, but he did score on his first start for United in the EFL Cup, showing signs of promise.
The 25-year-old then had horrific luck with injuries and had to wait until February to return. But when he did return, he has performed remarkably on the whole given his spell on the sidelines.
Bamford now has five goals in seven appearances since that injury and it is this form which will be crucial in the run-in for the Championship, which he will be sure to play a key part in.
