According to the Express, Patrick Bamford has expressed his interest to play for Chelsea FC next season. The Englishman was quoted saying, “I want to play for Chelsea, I hope I do get that chance and I think I can compete. However, he will not tolerate being on the bench. Bamford went on to say, “However, after two years regularly playing out on loan, going back and sitting on the bench wouldn’t really help me. So it’s down to those at the top at Chelsea to decide what will be the best for my career and what to do next year.”
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Those are strong, mature words from the young Englishman, who is just 21 years of age. While at first these quotes could come off slightly concerning, after taking a further look, he makes several valid points. Bamford has always had his sights set on wearing a blue jersey. Bamford said, “A lot of people said I left Nottingham Forest for the wrong reasons, but that wasn’t true. I wanted to play for a top team like Chelsea.” These quotes only go further in strengthening Bamford’s desire to line up for the Blues.
However, the bit about him wanting to play might cause some problems. I happen to think Bamford is our Harry Kane. The lad is brilliant, and has just recently been rewarded with Championship Player of the Season as a result of his efforts. He is a lethal finisher, and just has a knack for getting on the scoresheet. Some of his goals have been against top sides, such as his goal against Manchester City, which helped Middlesbrough knock the Sky Blues out of the FA Cup.
How would the Englishman fit into Chelsea FC next season though? Well he would have to be Chelsea’s third striker. This is not out of disrespect for Bamford’s talent, but rather respect for the talent of Costa and Remy. The two strikers have been brilliant for Chelsea this season and show zero signs of slowing down. Barring any major injury concerns for both players (like right now), it is difficult to see Bamford getting extended time on the pitch, other than in smaller competitions. Which brings me to my next point.
As much as I would LOVE to see Bamford back on Chelsea next season, it would be unfair to stall his growth to make him third striker. He is simply too good to be a third striker, and too young to settle. I think that a Premier League loan would be best for the Englishman. This would allow him to ply his trade on the main stage, and right under Chelsea’s watchful eye. It would see him develop even further and allow him to realize even more of his potential.
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Should Middlesbrough get promoted, this seems like a likely option for Bamford. That being said, he could be an interesting signing for a mid table team such as Southampton, Swansea, West Ham, or Crystal Palace. Either way, I believe it is safe to say that Bamford should remain on loan next season, as much as it kills me not seeing him line up for the Blues.
This would leave Chelsea FC’s third striker position open for either Drogba to continue one more season, or allow for academy players such as Izzy Brown and Dominic Solanke to fill the spot. I would expect both of them to take on more of a role with the first team next season.
Overall, Patrick Bamford is one of the gems of Abramovich’s loan army. He must be one of the success stories that break into the first team at some point. However, next season is not that season for the youngster. I look forward to watching him score goals next season, and thankfully because of the BPL loan regulations, they won’t be against Chelsea.
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