Patrick Bamford Signs With Sheffield United After Leading Abusive Chants Targeting Coach Chris Wilder

The striker has joined Sheffield United just seven months following leading insulting chants aimed at their manager, Wilder.

The 32-year-old forward, a free agent since leaving Leeds United, has agreed to a contract with the Championship strugglers through the winter. Bamford's seven-year career at Elland Road was ended by mutual consent this past summer.

Among Bamford’s last memorable actions as a Leeds player included starting abusive chants regarding Chris Wilder amid Leeds' promotion party this spring. Now, the one-cap England player will feature for Wilder as Sheffield United's boss looks to lift the team he loves away from the relegation zone.

Previous Conflict Involving Bamford & Wilder

The pair had previous conflict before Leeds moved up to the top flight last season while Sheffield United lost the playoff final to Sunderland. The manager described the forward as “a muppet” back when the situation was different in 2018-19 and the Blades won automatic promotion while Leeds United fell short in the promotion playoffs.

Reconciliation and Looking Ahead

All seems to have been forgiven and forgotten with Sheffield United, the Championship’s lowest scorers, urgently requiring of a boost in attack while Bamford looking to rejuvenate his career.

The Wilder chant gained traction this spring. An apologetic Bamford and the Leeds manager, Farke, called Wilder the following day.

Chris Wilder stated at the time: “Had a conversation with Pat recently and I have no issue at all with it. I'm uncertain about the words used from a fellow pro! But I valued and respected him giving me a call.

“We spent 20 minutes and similarly I spoke to Daniel Farke as well and we had a half-hour chat with him and he is a super guy, a top guy. When I was playing we used to dish it out and accept it and that’s an integral part of football across all levels, even on a Sunday morning. I've got absolutely no issue. I am cool with the situation and I told him that to Patrick.”

Recent Playing Struggles

Bamford featured in 18 games for Leeds last season however the former Forest, Chelsea and Middlesbrough player has faced difficulties with fitness issues in recent years.