Leeds United started their season well, but they now sit on the fifth spot in the table after a dismal last few weeks. The Whites have been guilty of squandering too many chances in the final third, and they have let in some sloppy goals as well.
However, the primary concern for Bielsa must be turning possession into goals. Patrick Bamford does a lot of things right in the final third, but he has now failed to score in the last six games. A striker will always be remembered for the goals he scored, and Bamford hasn’t been clinical off late.
Noel Whelan on Nketiah situation
United have another option in Eddie Nketiah, but he is yet to start in the Championship so far. Former Leeds United striker and BBC commentator Noel Whelan believes that he could be frustrated and might push for a move away in January. ”There is the possibility he will be recalled in January,” Whelan told Football Insider.
“It all depends on how much game time he is getting, and at the moment, he is only playing as a sub. He has shown a lot of talent and potential and is a really exciting young striker. He’s loved by the fans. A lot of other clubs wanted him in the summer, and you can see why.”
It’s tough to gauge what Nketiah’s attitude and character are like from outside and whether he is getting frustrated by not being involved in the first eleven. We think that it is time for the Arsenal man to get some starts and prove his worth as Bamford looks to be short on confidence.
What should Bielsa do?
However, Bielsa has shown in the past that he is likely going to stick with his choices until and unless they start dropping ‘disaster class’ level performances. As mentioned, Bamford does a lot of things right as his sharp and intelligent movements keep the defenders occupied. He is decent with his hold up play as well and can stretch the defence with his runs. But with the busy part of the season yet to come, we are expecting to see Nketiah get some starts and he should look to grab his opportunity then.
It remains to be seen now whether the forward will push for a move away in January if he continues as an impact substitute only. We think that chances of that happening are remote as the Whites have just two frontline strikers available and they will surely try everything to keep hold of him through the season. The Yorkshire club though needs to give Nketiah some starts in the next two odd months.
