Gracia: Pat set to stick the boot in
PATRICK BAMFORD has been backed to rediscover his shooting boots as Leeds bid to ease their mounting relegation fears today.
Javi Gracia’s side travel to Bournemouth desperate for a first win in five games after being dragged right into the thick of the battle to avoid the drop.
The Whites would have taken all three points from Tuesday’s 1-1 draw at home to Leicester had Bamford not spurned a golden opportunity late on.
Yet Gracia said the responsibility is not only on Bamford to score but also the rest of the strikers.
Bamford has netted just five times in 27 appearances this season. But asked if he can recapture his best form when Leeds need it most, boss Gracia said: “Of course.
“It’s only my opinion, but the strikers have to miss chances as well.
“It was the same in the last part of an important game (against Leicester) and we could have won.
“But if we need to create more chances we will do it as we have to find a way to get the results we need.
“Speaking about the strikers, it’s not only about Patrick but all of them. We have to give them more chances because this way they will score the goals we need. Being mentally strong is important for us now.”
Doubt continues to surround the future of Gracia (below), whose short-term deal is due to expire this summer.
The family of the former Watford boss have stayed in Spain as he continues to fight to keep Leeds in the Premier League.
He said: “I have to give my best and help this wonderful team and wonderful club.
“I’m delighted to be here and I only have one target on my mind and that’s to achieve the objective at the end of the season.
“After that I would be the happiest man in the world.”