Having had to endure a couple of months with injuries and suspensions to key personnel, Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa will be encouraged that striker Patrick Bamford came through his first competitive start for the club, when scoring a hat-trick for the U23's against Burnley this week. 

Bamford, a summer signing, made his return from injury that ruled him out for four months in early September with knee ligament damage.

But how crucial is Patrick Bamford's return to the Leeds squad?

We discuss.....

Alfie Burns

He’s going to be massive during the second-half of the season.

Suddenly, there isn’t as much pressure on Kemar Roofe, which can only be a good thing,

Between the two, they can share the burden for goals.

Jay Taylor

I wouldn’t say he is massively crucial, but if Kemar Roofe gets injured again or is out of form, then his importance increases and the weight of scoring goals regularly to keep pace at the top of the division becomes his burden.

Scoring a hat-trick will, however, remind fans of his talent and what he can add to the Leeds side heading into a busy festive period ahead of the business end to the season.

Louie Chandler

I think he could be pivotal.

He will be absolutely desperate to get back on the first-team pitch after missing pretty much the entire season so far.

A player like Bamford making up for lost time could be a dangerous prospect for the opposition.

George Harbey

He is massively important.

People forget that Bamford has been a superb forward over the years for the likes of Derby and Middlesbrough, and could definitely compete with Roofe for a place up front.

It’s good to see him back.