Brenden Aaronson enjoyed his birthday on Tuesday night with Leeds United’s winner against Watford, scoring his third goal of the season after just seven minutes at Elland Road.
One of four Leeds birthdays on Tuesday alongside Joe Rodon, Paul Reaney and a Leeds physio, Aaronson was gifted an easy chance on just seven minutes after Daniel Bachmann parried a Wilfried Gnonto cross.
It was Aaronson’s third goal of the season, after scoring against Portsmouth and Sheffield Wednesday. The USA star has endured a gruelling schedule over the past seven days, playing Mexico last Wednesday.
Then, Sheffield United on Friday and Watford on Tuesday. A few days to rest for Aaronson ahead of this weekend’s clash against Bristol City at Ashton Gate, but Simon Grayson still has a concern on the USA ace.
Simon Grayson still has doubts over Leeds man Brenden Aaronson
Aaronson of course has had the job of winning back the support of the fanbase, having jumped ship after relegation to join Union Berlin. But fans seem to have forgiven the American, as he plays a key Leeds role.
Speaking to BBC Radio Leeds, Grayson applauded Aaronson for showing “mental strength” to win back Leeds supporters. However, the former Leeds boss still has question marks regarding the £25m addition.
“He’s showed a lot of mental strength in coming back. Even against Portsmouth. Really energetic. A third goal which is good for a no.10, he brings something different to the team in terms of different no.10’s.
“Good energy, forward runs. One thing I’ve questioned about him is his end product, but he was cool and calm tonight. He’s showing what everyone expected of him when we bought him for the money did.”
Leeds fans will love what Brenden Aaronson said after full-time
While he might lack the physicality of some of his teammates and indeed, his opponents, Aaronson does make up for in sheer work rate. A likeable player, who is Leeds’ joint-second top scorer this campaign.
Brenden Aaronson stats for Leeds vs Watford:
- Two shots, one on target, one goal
- Five key passes (Leeds’ best)
- Two successful dribbles, fouled once
- Dispossessed twice, four unsuccessful touches
- 1 tackle, 1 clearance
- 7.80 WhoScored rating (Leeds’ best)
Speaking to LUTV, Aaronson underlined the focus and the mantra of this Leeds squad with promotion the obvious aim for the Yorkshire outfit. He said they feel they are the best team in the Championship.
“We’re on a mission. We want to win games and be top of the league, that’s the goal because we believe we’re the best team in this League,” Aaronson said, when quizzed by the Leeds Matchday Live team.
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