Chris Wilder gets Patrick Bamford decision he wanted as 'perfect' Sheffield United verdict backs season push
Patrick Bamford Sheffield United future saga close to conclusion as Chris Wilder wish made clear
Patrick Bamford sees Sheffield United as a “perfect fit” for the next chapter of his career, boss Chris Wilder has suggested, after confirmation that the former England international has signed an 18-month deal at Bramall Lane. The striker’s short-term deal was set to expire soon.
But as we reported this morning an agreement was close and was subsequently tied up ahead of this afternoon’s FA Cup clash with Mansfield Town which, for a long time, looked like it could be Bamford’s Bramall Lane farewell.
The former Leeds United man has scored five goals in 10 appearances for the Blades since joining on a short-term deal back in November, justifying United’s decision to bring him in after a summer spell as a free agent following his Elland Road departure.
"I made no secret of my desire to get in a 'number 9' and Patrick has fitted the bill seamlessly since he came in,” said boss Chris Wilder. “I'm delighted that everyone sees that this is a perfect fit. It has been evident the effect Patrick has had since November and there's more to come from him.
"He is a really important figure, on and off the pitch, like Jaïro Riedewald, and I thank everyone involved - specifically the owners and Stephen Bettis - in helping get this deal over the line at a very important time for the football club."
Speaking earlier this week, Wilder said of Bamford: “We were smart enough to see that the profile that Pat has works for us, which it certainly does. I've been consistent in terms of needing a number nine and what that brings to the team. We did our work with him in that period.
“He came in and he wanted a short-term deal. It suited both because we could have a look at him, even though we would have committed to longer. That's the way it works.
“We think we've been good for Pat, and Pat's been good for us. If he walks away, there's going to be no fingers pointed or nobody receiving any sort of criticism. But I'd be absolutely delighted if we can get it over the line.”