A Baltic Bolton and Brexit means Bamford is what we can take from Saturday. Well, three points and top of league of course as well. Bolton does not hold particularly fond memories for Leeds fans, so any win there is rather good viewing.
Tory Football
Anyone who is aware of Patrick Bamford, will know that he would walk into an all-time Tory XI in football. Probably coach it as well. Amazingly he has probably been the countries most successful Tory over the last week or so. Although apparently, Mick McCarthy is trying to convince him to play for Republic of Ireland. Could not be a less Tory move if he tried. If he did that is.
If we actually go into the football that was played on Saturday (there wasn’t a lot of it), it showed we have the grit to grind out games. There is no doubt at this level that grinding out results in Baltic places like Bolton is a key marker for success.
Leeds just seem to have the kind of players that are whatever-the-weather we will get results type. Plus, it was obvious that Bolton would try and Brexit their way through this game as much as they could. But remember, Brexit means Bamford.
Sexy Samu No More
It did recently occur to me that this had been a rather drama-free season for Leeds. Despite finally having an owner that seemingly cares about other humans, we still at least had Badge-gate last season which dished out some giggles.
Of course, we have had the injuries, but we have at least backed that up with results. The only reason I can suggest the squad morale is so good is because no player is doing rehab on their own. There is more injured than fit, but we’re top the league with a Tory striker so all’s well.
But anyway, as I mentioned, it has been rather drama free until the events over the last week. It had been reported that Samu Saiz, for some time, has been rather unsettled in England. Not only that, but that he had also agreed to join La Liga side Getafe on loan with a view to permanent. Good timing if you ask me, anything to avoid Baltic Bolton.
With no goals in 14 months and one start in seven, you may think he isn’t much of a loss. But if you read my previous column on him, you’ll understand that he is probably the most naturally gifted player in the league. Unfortunately it was a kind of one in ten performance. But perhaps that suggested how unsettled he was.
I shan’t go into the details of why he is unsettled. But do go read up on it if you will. His wife has had problems and the club acted honourably towards that.
Made in Chelsea
Undoubtedly, Leeds and Chelsea links have a history of going pear shaped. Ken Bates and Dennis Wise for a start. Jamal Blackman joined on loan this season and has since broke his leg. Lewis Baker has failed to make an impression, albeit the few chances he has had.
Now it is the time to step-up for Izzy Brown. The attacking midfielder has been injured since joining Leeds (of course) recovering from an ACL injury. This just isn’t a good start already is it? Nonetheless it is down to him, as it stands, to replace Saiz and make an impact. The versatile attacker is said to not be far off first team football again and could be seen as a cheaper option to finding a replacement.
Well, as long as we have Pablo Hernandez fit and supporting them all, theoretically we will be fine. Who am I kidding, this is Leeds.
