Dean Jones has told Give Me Sport that Leeds United’s “plan” was to combine both Brenden Aaronson and Weston McKennie in midfield but under Sam Allardyce – it is clear Aaronson does not fit, and Allardyce prefers other options.
Jesse Marsch reunited with Aaronson last summer in what was his first signing as Leeds manager. He continually played his fellow countryman before his sack in February, but Javi Gracia continued to start with the USMNT player.
But the £43k-a-week star’s stats make for grim reading. One goal, three assists in 34 League outings. He is unlucky not to have two goals to his name – with the winner against Wolves on the opening day going down as an own goal.
However, for a £25m signing – not good enough. Even Aaronson admits his form and numbers have not been at the level he would have liked. Allardyce has dropped him to the bench for his two games in charge. Jones commented.
“I don’t think it is a case of one or the other, and actually I feel McKennie has actually not been a problem recently. Allardyce doesn’t really see Aaronson fitting into his system. The plan was for these two to be playing together.”
Jones: Leeds plan was to combine Aaronson and McKennie in midfield
Simply put, Aaronson is not strong enough just yet to cope with the rigour and demand of the Premier League from a physical aspect. The work rate, the energy, the technique, that is all there. But he gets bumped off the ball easily.
He has impressed on his day but you would also suggest that in the last few months, the weight of expectation and a lack of confidence has hindered his performance levels. But there is a player there and with time, he might grow.
