'Majorly proved me wrong' - Paul Merson eats his words over Leeds United player

The Elland Road hitman has been one of the breakout stars of the Premier League campaign so far, hitting 12 goals and six assists in 22 outings.

Few expected the 27-year-old to emerge as such a prolific threat in the top flight, however, and speaking on Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday, Merson admitted that he was among those who doubted his ability to cut it at the highest level.

He said: “He works his socks off up front.

"He’s got good movement. He scores goals, brings players into the game.

"I think he’s an absolute must. I think if Bamford gets injured, I think Leeds could struggle.

"For all the great play they have, he’s the one, a lot of the time, who makes it happen.

"I like him. If you’d said to me at the start of the season, I would have never seen this happening. I really didn’t.

"I couldn’t talk highly enough of the lad. He's majorly proved me wrong – majorly.”

Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp also lavished praise on Bamford, arguing that the striker should be in contention for an England call-up based on his performances this season.

He said: "He's been around, but I think he looks a fantastic player.

"This year, his finishing… I could see him making the England squad.

"If we're picking it based on performances this year, he’s got to be right up there.”