Leeds United manager Daniel Farke has informed striker Patrick Bamford that he is "not part" of the team's plans for the upcoming season. Consequently, Bamford will train with the under-21 squad if he remains at the club.
The 31-year-old was notably absent from the squad during Saturday's 0-0 pre-season draw against Manchester United in Stockholm. This absence raised concerns about a potential new injury, given Bamford's history of fitness issues.
However, Farke clarified that he is ready to conclude Bamford's seven-year tenure at Elland Road. "I had a very open and honest conversation with Patrick, which was crucial," he stated. "He is aware of how much I value him as a player, and I would have preferred a fit Patrick Bamford for the past two seasons."
Farke continued, "But he is a player who needs to be the focal point. He requires support after challenging seasons, and I was not prepared to assure him of a leading role at the Premier League level."
On the second day of pre-season, Farke met with Bamford to inform him that he is not in the plans for the forthcoming season. Farke emphasized the importance of transparency and respect, acknowledging Bamford's significant contributions to the club.
Bamford, who joined Leeds from Middlesbrough for £7 million in 2018, has made 205 appearances and scored 60 goals for the club. He played a vital role in two promotion campaigns and excelled during Leeds' return to the Premier League under Marcelo Bielsa in 2020, netting 17 goals.
Farke confirmed that Bamford will not participate in Leeds' pre-season camp in Germany and will be excluded from first-team training upon the squad's return at the end of July. "I will handle this situation with as much respect as possible, but there comes a point when you cannot continue with five or six strikers," the German manager explained.
Discussions are ongoing regarding how to maintain Bamford's fitness. "The under-21s will travel to Munich for a friendly, and he will likely join them for several sessions upon their return. Team training is essential for his fitness; merely running around the training ground is not a viable solution," Farke added.