3 LIONS NEED BIT OF PADDY POWER!

PATRICK BAMFORD can still force his way into England contention, according to Brian Deane.

The hitman, 27, struggled in the 2-1 win against Newcastle on Tuesday and was substituted after 60 minutes.

But despite failing to find the net during his last four league matches, Bamford has still notched 10 goals in 19 Premier League games. Former striker Deane, who made 138 appearances for Leeds in the 1990s, reckons he should be considered for a Three Lions call from boss Gareth Southgate, especially with Harry Kane struggling.

“It depends on what Southgate sees in Bamford and the variety of forwards he’s looking for in his squad,” he said. “International football is another level – and the attackers we have at the moment are very strong – but you never know.

“The central role is one that requires a lot of intelligence and movement. “You’ve got to have a good all-round game. “And looking at it that way, there aren’t that many who are happy to play down the middle and really get stuck in. “Football has changed over the years and there’s less emphasis on traditional centre forwards but you do still need players with that ability.” Leeds only secured promotion from the Championship last season. However, Elland Road chief Marcelo Bielsa has refused to tone down his side’s high-tempo attacking style. And while the Argentine will occasionally tinker with his formation, Bamford (below) is often deployed as a lone striker. Deane (inset) says Bielsa’s tactics, coupled with Bamford’s relative unfamiliarity to Premier League defenders, has been a game changer. “The way Leeds play suits him,” he added. “The whole team works so hard and they play great fast-flowing football and teams struggle against them. “Bamford’s learning to be in the right place at the right time.”