The day before the end of the summer window saw Daniel Farke call on Leeds United to bring in a player as cover or competition for Brenden Aaronson, but it never arrived.
It was the first time that Farke had publicly called on the board to help him out in the transfer market. Plenty were considered, Angus Kinnear saying James McAtee and Fabio Carvalho were options.
Leeds failed to sign a new no.10 on deadline day despite doing deals for Ao Tanaka and Isaac Schmidt. It leaves Leeds lacking in options in the 10 role, other than the returning USA international Aaronson.
Farke has described Aaronson as the club’s only natural no.10 in the senior side. But should the American become unavailable, it is likely he will have to plug a round peg in a square hole like striker Joel Piroe.
But if Farke is keen to add a no.10 to his senior side before the January window, then he only has to take a look at Scott Gardner’s U21 side and most-recently, their 2-1 win over West Brom on Friday night.
Rhys Chadwick has that no.10 aura to make it at Leeds United
Leeds know they have a talent on their hands. The club confirmed a two-year deal for the 17-year-old in the summer, while handing out one-year deals to other players including in-form striker Luca Thomas.
Clearly, Leeds know the “integral” star is a talent. Technically gifted, hard-working but with that charisma and aura that no.10’s need. He scored a fantastic goal on Friday night, the winner for Gardner’s U21 side.
With his socks halfway down in his shins, Chadwick celebrated his goal with a knee slide in front of a stand with no fans but one cameraman. If Farke is watching, he will surely have been impressed by him.
Daniel Farke’s other options in the no.10 role at Leeds United
Of course, there is the option of playing a Joe Rothwell or Tanaka further forward but with a lack of options in midfield right now, that cannot be done. Wilfried Gnonto or Manor Solomon can play inside.
Daniel Farke’s list of possible options if Aaronson unavailable:
- Joel Piroe (currently starting up top)
- Wilfred Gnonto (currently starting left wing)
- Manor Solomon (currently injured)
- Joe Rothwell (currently starting in midfield)
- Rhys Chadwick
When Leeds return from the October break, Leeds could well be without Brenden Aaronson to face rivals Sheffield United. USA play against Mexico at 3.30am on October 16, before Sheffield United on the 18th.
Aaronson will be jet lagged and depending on his minutes on Wednesday in Mexico, he could be too fatigued. Leeds need a no.10 as cover and on Friday, Chadwick showed he can be that man.
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