Leeds United’s marquee summer signing Patrick Bamford might not have started any games in the Championship, but the club is going to miss him as the season wears on. The former Championship player of the season winner got injured when he was playing against Bristol City’s u-23 side, and he is set to be out for four months at least. There could be a sense of panic among the Whites faithful as now the club is left with just one genuine strike option in Kemar Roofe, and many are of the opinion that the club should sign some free agent to cover in for that position. However, today we would take a look at whether someone from inside the club can fill in the void left by Bamford.
Tyler Roberts was signed by the Whites last season in the January transfer window and he is likely to be the option which Bielsa might have to use if he decides to give Kemar Roofe a breather. The striker was signed for £2.5m from West Bromwich Albion, and the 19-year-old has already represented his national side Wales.
Roberts was picked up by West Brom scouts when he was just seven and slowly went up the ladder at the club. The forward was involved in the fringes of the first team when he was only 16 as he started training with the senior squad and by 2016, he was named on the bench for the first time.
He wasn’t really able to break into the Baggies squad, and his major claim to fame happened when he went on to represent Wales national side.
The 19-year old is known for his direct style of play as he likes taking on defenders. What set him apart at the youth level was his intelligence when he had the ball as he knew when to hold the ball and when to pass and look for other team-mates. The Welshman showcases immense strength on the ball, and his pace is also one of his standout features. Because of his speed and ability to go past defenders, he has often been used down the wings as well.
Last year, Premier League club Bournemouth were also interested in the striker, but the Whites got a deal for him in January. Bamford’s injury is a huge setback, but we think Roberts deserves a chance to prove himself. We often see fans demanding a signing to be made as soon as there is some setback to the squad.
There is no guarantee that even a new signing would be able to make that kind of impact so trying out a young striker won’t be a bad option. Maybe the Welshman can step up during this testing time and go on to establish himself as an integral member of the squad.
