The England Under-21 striker is enjoying a fine season on loan at the Riverside from Chelsea, his 17 league goals making him the club’s top scorer as Boro sit one point off top spot in the table.
'I don't know myself what will happen in the summer. It's a big thing to play for Chelsea'
And having won the accolade at Sunday evening’s Football League awards, the 21-year-old is putting all thoughts of a potential first-team opportunity at his parent club to the back of his mind as he targets securing the Teesside outfit’s top flight return after a six-year absence.
"I can't put it into words," said Bamford after his win. "I was taken aback to be nominated and then to win it...
"I actually joined Middlesbrough a bit late. I'd missed the first five games, and was on the bench and playing bit parts. It was a bit frustrating but I got my chance and it's been a good season."
Bamford has scored 17 league goals for Boro
When quizzed about a Chelsea return, he added: "I'm just concentrating on Middlesbrough.
"We've got our last two games, making sure we do our bit and hoping Bournemouth or Watford slip up.
"I don't know myself what will happen in the summer. It's a big thing to play for Chelsea. When I moved from Forest people said I went for the wrong reasons, but that wasn't the case and I hope to get that chance.
'I'd benefit most from playing, but that would be up to the people at Chelsea'
"I'd benefit most from playing, but that would be up to the people at Chelsea to decide what career plan they have for me."
Bamford had to play through the pain barrier on Friday as he helped Aitor Karanka’s side defeat fellow promotion hopefuls Norwich City 1-0 at Carrow Road. Next up for him and his team-mates is a trip to Fulham on Saturday, a game he will be doing everything in his power to play in.
"I've got a scan on Monday and it's a bit sore but I'll try and play on," he added.
"It was massive win for us at Norwich on Friday. It wasn't our best game of the season, but we have the best defensive record and you saw why.”
Bamford will be hoping his form is enough to earn a place in Gareth Southgate’s Young Lions squad for this summer’s European U21 Championship in June.
England have been drawn alongside Portugal, Sweden and Italy.
