CLOUD 9 FOR JESSE DROP BID

BY DAVID ANDERSON

JESSE MARSCH admits the lack of a natural striker is hampering Leeds United’s fight for survival.

Leeds have struggled without the injured Patrick Bamford (above) and their other forwards have not been able to plug the gap left by the England international.

Dan James has not looked comfortable playing as a No.9 and Marsch admits it is an issue. “We’ve asked Dan James to play in that position and I know it’s not ideal,” the American said. “If we can get Patrick back fit, that would be helpful for sure.

“I’ve been thinking about how to use Joffy (Joe Gelhardt) more and Rodrigo can play in the position, but he’s more of a false nine or he operates better when there’s another striker with him.”

Bamford’s 17 goals last season propelled Leeds to ninth and Marsch claims he will figure before the end of the season.

“He has been moving really well, doing a lot of ball work, relatively active and dynamic,” Leeds boss Marsch said.

“We still have two-and-ahalf weeks and we’ll go step by step, but I’m hopeful we can get him into training next week. We are remaining cautiously optimistic.”

Leeds, who have been overtaken by Burnley, are just two points above the drop zone despite taking 11 points from their last six games but Marsch insists they are not anxious about their plight.

Everton, one place below them, have a game in hand and Leeds must face in-form Arsenal at the Emirates tomorrow and then Chelsea at home on Wednesday. They have lost every match against the big six this term.

“It’s normal for everyone to have emotional responses to results that don’t or do go our way, but the focus on the work here has been phenomenal,” he said.