Boro striker Bamford eager to ‘kick on’ at Championship level

Middlesbrough striker Patrick Bamford believes Championship football will see him finally establish himself at the Riverside Stadium next season.

Bamford scored his first goal in more than two years in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to Southampton, having first found the back of the net in Boro colours back in September 2014 while on loan from Chelsea.

During that season, he hit 17 goals for the club, and spent time at Crystal Palace, Norwich and Burnley before returning to the north east on a permanent deal in January.

His goal at the weekend was also his first in the Premier League, and while Middlesbrough may not be playing top-flight football next season, Bamford insists it is time to prove himself in front of goal.

(Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

“I’ve always believed in myself. I always knew that if I started games, I would score,” he said.

“It was only my third Premier League start in two years, so it has been frustrating.

“But even though I haven’t played, I would still say I’ve improved as a player since I was last here.

“I believe I’m in a good position for next year, and the team are too.

“Pre-season will be important for me because the last time I had a proper pre-season was before I came here the last time.

“That was when I went away with Chelsea [to the USA] and played a couple of games.

“It will be nice to get a full pre-season under my belt, and hopefully kick on.”