Dr Rajpal Brar believes Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford will not play the whole 90 minutes against Southampton in the play-off final.
According to the injury expert, for the Englishman to play on Sunday, May 26, he must be in partial training right now, followed by a pair of full training sessions.
The 30-year-old may suffer from chronic pain in that area and be unable to heal in time for the game, having missed the second leg against Norwich as well.
Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, Brar, a Physical Therapist and Sports Scientist, said of Bamford:
“The patellar tendon rests beneath the kneecap and is subjected to a significant level of force by footballers, particularly during jumping and landing.
“Mini trauma most likely indicates a knock to that location.
“The worst-case scenario is persistent pain and discomfort in that area.
“For him to be available for the final, he would need to return to partial training at the very least, and possibly a couple of full-training sessions before to the game.
“It’s highly unlikely he plays the full 90 minutes, however.”
Leeds United worried about Patrick Bamford’s injury.
While Bamford has not been a regular starter this season, spending more time on the bench, Daniel Farke will want him to be at his best in the final.
The 30-year-old provides so much off the ball and can stretch opponents with his direct running skills.
He has nine goals in all competitions this season, and if he is given the opportunity to play even 30 minutes in the final, Farke may be tempted to bring him on in the second half.
