Leeds United will now be made to stew on their defeat to Blackburn Rovers for a whole week before having the chance to put it right against Derby County next weekend.
After three wins in a row and nine goals scored in those matches against QPR, Swansea and Luton, Leeds had to win to back to the top of the table after Sheffield United dispatched of Sunderland on Friday night.
None of the Leeds players impressed. Ao Tanaka endured his worst outing in a Leeds shirt, with the Japan star conceding a penalty in which Todd Cantwell scored the only goal of the game for John Eustace’s side.
Tanaka also lost nine of his 15 duels against Blackburn, something which the midfielder normally prides himself of. Leeds’ attackers all struggled, with Dan James probably the pick of the bunch but not by much.
Brenden Aaronson struggles again, leaves Tony Dorigo stunned
Aaronson was well below-par during the win over Luton and it saw Daniel Farke defend the American after full-time. Farke praised Aaronson’s work rate, but the playmaker is struggling to develop rhythm.
Just four goals and one assist now in 19 appearances this season. Towards the end of the first half, the American had a chance to equalise but volleyed from close range both wide and over the bar.
Dorigo slammed Aaronson during commentary on LUTV, as he failed to convert Dan James’ cross: “It’s a miss-kick. Really should do so much better, Aaronson just needs to side that one back across goal.
“I’m sure that is that he was trying to do. But he got it all wrong. A good ball initially to that far stick, when it comes back – it’s not what he wanted to do, or what we needed,” Leeds icon Dorigo commented.
Daniel Farke really needs to give Brenden Aaronson a rest
We’re only just into December but Aaronson has already clocked up a huge 23 appearances for club and country this season. Not just the sheer volume of games, but the travelling to represent the United States.
Leeds lack cover or competition for Aaronson and there is a need for another no.10. Aaronson’s recent form is highlighting the need for another 10, given he looks jaded; far from his normally energetic self.
Physically, but mentally too. Aaronson will know the last two have been poor and may be carrying a bit more weight than most given his decision to leave on loan last season. But Aaronson really needs to rest.
Perhaps, when Derby come to Elland Road next weekend, Leeds could hand Wilfried Gnonto a chance to play from the role. Leeds fans actually wanted Gnonto for the 10 role ahead of the Blackburn clash.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
