Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford scored his 100th career goal to help his team to a 2 – 0 win against Crystal Palace.
It was Bamford’s 12th Premier League goal of the season and with the win, Leeds head into the top half of the table.
Under Bielsa, Leeds have massively over achieved in the Premier League. Back in the top flight after so long, they’ve already solidified their credentials. By contrast, fellow promotees West Brom and Fulham look like certainties to be relegated.
Patrick Bamford endured a disappointing loan spell at Crystal Palace during the 2015/2016 season. For a striker who has always had his doubters, his performances this season will be more than satisfying.
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In the Championship, Bamford was an okay striker. His goal record wasn’t among the best, and he was criticized for missing too many chances.
With 12 goals, he is the 6th highest goalscorer in the Premier League this season. He has one more goal than Jamie Vardy, and just one less than Son, Kane, Calvert-Lewin and Fernandes.
That he is performing to such a high standard is a testament to coach Marcelo Bielsa.
“The fact we won the Championship [last season] is always getting further away, and we’re taking our step into the Premier League now, trying to play as naturally as possible and show that we deserve to be in this league,” said Bielsa.
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In many ways, Bamford is emblematic of the Marcelo Bielsa legacy. Because Bielsa, while a top coach, isn’t necessarily someone who’s going to win trophies or build a dynasty.
He’s a coach who captures the hearts and minds of fans and gets the absolute maximum out of his players.
If Bamford were to play for another side, it’s unlikely he would be achieving so much. However, under Bielsa, he has a manager who can help him maximise his potential. When Bielsa, and the scintillating football is gone, he will live on in the players he spurred on to a greatness they didn’t even see in themselves.
