Daniel Farke Confirms Patrick Bamford Is Not Included In Leeds United's Premier League Plans

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Leeds United's manager, Daniel Farke, has disclosed that Patrick Bamford will not be included in his plans for the upcoming season. Bamford was notably absent from the squad during their pre-season friendly against Manchester United in Sweden, which ended in a 0-0 draw. Last season, Bamford appeared in only 17 Championship matches due to a hamstring injury and did not score any league goals.

Over the last two seasons, Bamford has started just 15 league games, scoring eight goals and playing for a total of 1,719 minutes. Farke cited Bamford's ongoing fitness issues as a key reason for his exclusion. "I had a really open and honest conversation with him," Farke stated. "He knows exactly how I view him as a player."

Farke expressed his desire to have had a fully fit Bamford over the past two years. He acknowledged Bamford's contributions to the club and felt it was essential to be transparent about his plans. "Patrick is a player who at this stage needs to be the main man," Farke explained. However, he added that after recent seasons, he couldn't guarantee Bamford that role at Premier League level.

While Bamford missed the trip to Sweden, Jack Harrison was part of the squad and played against Manchester United. Harrison spent two seasons on loan at Everton, where he scored four league goals and provided three assists. Despite mixed reactions from fans upon his return, Farke is open to giving Harrison an opportunity to regain trust.

Farke commented on Harrison's situation: "It all depends on how Jack uses his chances." He praised Harrison as a hard worker with extensive Premier League experience. Although Harrison had an offer to remain at the top level before returning to Leeds, Farke believes it's up to him now to win back confidence.

Bamford has been training well and professionally despite not being part of Farke's Premier League plans. "His reaction was top class," Farke noted, appreciating Bamford's professionalism and understanding of the situation. The manager emphasised that Bamford deserves respect for his past achievements with Leeds.

Farke highlighted that while it isn't ideal for Bamford not to be the main striker anymore, he also shouldn't be considered merely a backup after leading the team for years. The manager reiterated that transparency was crucial in handling this transition with Bamford.

As Leeds prepares for the new season, both players face different challenges ahead. While Harrison aims to prove himself once more at Elland Road, Bamford must navigate his future outside of Farke's immediate plans but remains respected within the club for his past contributions.