It is no secret that Leeds' injury crisis this season has had a knock-on effect which reflects their position in the table right now.

With numerous key players missing at one point or another, Leeds have struggled to establish a run of form in the Premier League this season and are currently 17th in the table, with a relegation battle in sight if they don't pick up points over the next few weeks.

One key injury which has hampered the goal threat for Marcelo Bielsa's side is the one to Patrick Bamford. He was an integral member of the starting XI last season, scoring 17 goals and setting up his team-mates eight times, which even sparked shouts of an England call-up from many for Euro 2020 last summer.

It is clear that the striker's injury is a big blow with numbers like those, but with no confirmation of a return date so far, it's looking like Bielsa will need to find another way to cover the goals and assists needed to compete in the Premier League.

The Leeds manager spoke out ahead of the Spurs game about both Ayling and Bamford, saying: “They’re not available for the game on Sunday. The evolution is controlled on a daily basis and I would not want to give you a date that won’t be met. When my responses are brief it’s because I can’t offer certainty.”

The striker picked up his ankle injury in September and was hopeful to return after the October international break but that hasn't been the case, and Bielsa confirmed that the 28-year-old's ankle issue was "not a simple injury".

Leeds will have to do without the striker until further notice, but have been handed a boost with Raphinha back in action and will be hoping that he can drive the team forward with some important attacking performances to keep the side out of the relegation zone before winter break.

It is unclear if the Whites will seek to add more attacking players at Elland Road during the winter transfer window, which could be dependent on further injuries or a better picture of whether Bamford will become available before then.

With only two other teams scoring fewer Premier League goals, the continued absence of last season's top scorer will come as a gutting blow to Bielsa as he aims to lift Leeds away from trouble.

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