“He deserved all the praise”- Daniel Farke says criticism of Leeds United player is ‘over the line’ and that ‘he deserves all the praise’
Leeds United Make It Two Wins in a Row to Stay Top of the Championship
Leeds United secured back-to-back victories on Saturday, defeating Preston North End 2-1 to maintain their place at the top of the Championship table.
After a tense spell where Daniel Farke’s side managed just two wins from seven games — even briefly slipping to third — the Whites have bounced back impressively. A midweek win over Middlesbrough saw them reclaim top spot, and Saturday’s result helped solidify their position. Goals from Manor Solomon and Jayden Bogle were enough to see off Preston at Elland Road.
Farke’s weekend was further boosted by Sheffield United’s loss to Plymouth Argyle, which allowed Burnley — level on points with Leeds — to widen the gap between second and third to five points.
Next up for Leeds is a Friday night away clash against Oxford United.
Farke Backs Bamford Amid Calls for Change
Patrick Bamford has been gradually reintroduced to the side, making substitute appearances in Leeds’ last three matches. He nearly found the net against Middlesbrough, only for his goal to be controversially disallowed — what would’ve been his first league goal of the season.
Many fans had been calling for Bamford to start over Joe Piroe, who has now gone eight games without scoring. Despite the pressure, Farke stuck with Piroe, but the Dutchman struggled mightily against Preston, missing seven chances and failing to hit the target once.
Speaking to Leeds Live after the match, Farke defended Bamford and suggested some of the criticism aimed at him had been excessive.
“You have to take the pressure and the praise,” Farke said. “Everyone can see the effort Patrick puts in. He deserves credit. Some of the negative talk about him has gone too far — this is an emotional game, and he’s giving his all.”
Fans Lose Patience With Piroe Despite Win
While supporters were pleased with another win — and delighted by Sheffield United’s latest slip — frustration grew around Piroe’s performance. Despite having 15 goals in the league this season, he looked off the pace once again, wasting multiple opportunities in front of goal.
After the match, many fans took to social media to voice their disappointment, questioning whether Piroe should continue starting and urging Farke to give Bamford a chance in the next game.
Leeds United’s next fixture is against Oxford United, with kickoff set for 8 PM on Friday.
