Leeds manager Sam Allardyce calls on police to do more after Patrick Bamford abuse - The Athletic 19/5/23
By Phil Hay
Leeds manager Sam Allardyce has called on authorities to do
more after Patrick Bamford was targeted with abuse on social media.
The 29-year-old was the subject of abusive messages and
threats after playing for Leeds against Newcastle United on Saturday.
Bamford had a penalty kick saved as Leeds drew 2-2.
Leeds called the behaviour “completely unacceptable” at the
weekend with Allardyce striking a similar tone.
“He’s been okay – obviously extremely upset about the
situation,” he said. “It’s very, very bad taste indeed. I’d like the police to
do a lot more.
“It appears that social media rule the world and can say and
do what they want unfortunately. Which is why the world’s in such a big mess.
“He’s handled it pretty well. The club gave him as much
support as he needed, particularly security wise. It wasn’t just him it was
about his family.
“The best way is to go out on the pitch on Sunday, perform
to his highest level, try and score and it would be even greater if he went and
scored the winner.”
Allardyce continued: “I do fear for our life, as an old
timer now, with social media and what it’s bringing to the world.
“AI. I’ve just heard about 40,000 jobs going from BT. What
are they going to do? Then next piece of AI comes in and another 30,000 jobs
go. What are they going to do?
“For me it’s not a great future with what we’re doing with
the world and climate change. That’s me outside of football talking about the
worry for my grandchildren.”
Leeds are 18th in the Premier League table and return to
action against West Ham on Sunday.
David Moyes’ side will come in fresh from reaching the
Europa Conference League final on Thursday night, something Allardyce believes
could play into Leeds’ hands.
“They’ve got a final to think about. Subconsciously, you’ll
never know whether that may affect the players when they go out and play.
