Veteran Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford has discussed his changing leadership position inside the team.
Speaking in an interview with CBS Sports Golazo, Bamford outlined his path from one of the younger players to emerging as a mentoring presence in the dressing room.
What did the forward say?
The England international was honest about his increasing feeling of obligation when asked if he considered himself a leader in the dressing room.
He confessed: “It’s not until you look around the dressing room that you actually think ‘God I am getting old here, I am getting on a bit.’”
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The striker’s remark captures the typical evolution of a footballer’s career, in which youth finally gives way to experience.
What’s in store for the next generation?
In football, leadership is frequently more than simply donning the captain’s armband. The former Chelsea player detailed his support for young athletes, making sure they stay relaxed and concentrated even when they are not among the starting roster.
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“I do try and lean on my experience a little bit, and I think this year I have spoken to a lot of the players who maybe haven’t been in the team as much or as much as they would want and kind of leading them through that and just keeping them calm a little bit,” the forward said.
What role does Bamford play?
Official captains for Leeds United are Ethan Ampadu and Pascal Struijk; nonetheless, the Briton views himself and other seasoned players as unofficial leaders.
He added: “We have obviously Ethan as captain and Pascal as captain, but then there’s older players like me, like Karl Darlow, who I think without us realizing ourselves, the players kind of look up to a little bit.”
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Many times the backbone of effective teams is such organic leadership. Veterans like Bamford and Darlow offer stability and insight; they act as mentors for their young colleagues.
What does his leadership role entail?
For the 31-year-old, leadership entails modeling behavior on and off the pitch, not only providing directions. He thinks his comments have weight since they are supported by experience and respect.
“So we can almost lead by example and then when we need to say something, generally our word counts for a lot,” he ended.
Having a player like the English forward who can lead by example, motivate younger players, and provide a steadying presence is an invaluable asset as the Championship title winners reflect on their triumph.
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