By Alex McLeish

10th Mar, 2022 | 10:00am

Patrick Bamford: Expert tips new-look Leeds system after confirmed plans for striker

Alex McLeish has suggested Jesse Marsch could adapt his tactics to keep Patrick Bamford fit and firing for Leeds United ahead of his comeback for injury.

The former Scotland manager, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 28-year-old could save the Whites from the threat of relegation if he remains sharp for the rest of the season.

Speaking at his press conference on Wednesday (9 March), Marsch confirmed Bamford is in line to feature from the bench against Aston Villa tonight after his lengthy injury absence.

McLeish admitted getting the striker back up to speed is an absolute priority for the Whites.

However, he suggested Marsch may want to limit his “incessant running” to keep him fighting fit.

McLeish told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “You have to get him back. It’s as simple as that, regardless of what kind of condition he is in.

“If he is fit to play and he is not as sharp as he could be, then he has got to get football matches.

“Maybe they can supply him and take the incessant running he does, that burden, away from him a wee bit and keep him higher up. I know it’s part of his game and he loves to be an all-round player.

“But if they can keep him sharp for the last third, he could be one of the big reasons why Leeds can stay in the Premier League.”

Bamford has not played for Leeds since coming on as a substitute against Brentford in December.

He has made just six Premier League appearances this season, with two goals under his belt.

In other news, pundit claims Marsch has already fixed Bielsa “problem” at Leeds United after what he has seen and heard.