Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford is likely to start his side’s Premier League clash with Chelsea, according to reliable journalist Phil Hay.

The Lowdown: Big game for Leeds

The Whites are back in action this weekend and they make the trip to historical rivals Chelsea for a meeting between two struggling sides.

Leeds continue to battle relegation, although last weekend’s 1-0 win over Southampton was huge, while the Blues are languishing in mid-table under Graham Potter.

It is a massive afternoon for both sides and Whites boss Javi Gracia has a key decision to make when it comes to naming his starting lineup at Stamford Bridge.

The Latest: Bamford backed to start

Writing in Q&A for The Athletic on Saturday morning, Hay said he believes Bamford will get the nod in attack:

He said:

“I reckon he’ll probably start with Bamford. We were saying on the poddy that it’s a big one to throw Rutter into – but then again he is a £30m player so it’s not asking that much. I just feel, like you say, that Bamford is more effective from the start.”

The Verdict: Better performance required

Bamford has really struggled to return to his 2020/21 form since a string of injury problems – he scored 17 league goals that year – with his performances lacking a spark for a sustained period now.

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In fact, the 29-year-old has netted just once in the league in 17 appearances this season, appearing to be a yard slower and simply not looking as confident in front of goal.

Starting the £70,000-a-week Bamford at Chelsea is, therefore, a risk, but the hope is that his experience shines through on the day and his hold-up play allows Leeds to be a threat on the counter-attack.

Recent signing Georginio Rutter could then be used as an impact substitute later in the game, taking advantage of tiring legs and replacing his older teammate in attack.