In Thursday’s press conference ahead of Saturday’s clash against Wolves at Molineux, Daniel Farke was asked about Brenden Aaronson after starting him against Fulham last week.
It was a surprise decision to bring Aaronson in. Of course, Leeds fans watched the £25m American start 44 of 46 Championship games last season, but the belief was that a change in formation may see him axed.
Certainly, the overriding feeling of Aaronson among fans is one of frustration. Frustrated with his form on the pitch, frustrated the club paid £25m to sign him, and even frustrated that Farke continues to pick him.
Jon Newsome said Leeds should sell Brenden Aaronson, but Larry Nance Jr thinks Leeds are a better side with Aaronson in the team. Aaronson was solid at Fulham and retained his place at Wolves on Saturday.
Tony Dorigo underlines what Leeds fans think about Aaronson
The decision to keep Aaronson in the side comes after Farke defended Aaronson in the week. The Leeds boss said that he doesn’t deserve the criticism he gets, despite his big price tag and his lack of strength.
But Aaronson won more tackles than anybody at Fulham, and against Wolves he was impressive. Involved in Leeds’ attack, too. It was his pass that saw Dominic Calvert-Lewin win the free-kick for Anton Stach.
During commentary in the first half of Leeds’ win against Wolves, Dorigo gave his verdict on Aaronson. He told LUTV that he understands the work rate Aaronson puts in, but questions what he offers in attack.
“He’s worked extremely hard. He’s kept the ball well, but we’re always looking for that bit going forward. He does everything else very well. The space when he does go inside is there for Jayden Bogle to attack.”
Brenden Aaronson’s stats for Leeds United against Wolves
With Dan James and Willy Gnonto both suffering knocks, it was always likely that Farke stuck with Aaronson though there were some calls to bring in Jack Harrison and have him play from the right flank.
Obviously, Farke’s decision-making worked. Leeds secured a second win of the season and in terms of aiming for a point a game, currently sit ahead of the curve. Seven points from the first five matches.
Aaronson stats for Leeds v Wolves:
- 6.8 FotMob rating (tenth-best of 16), 89 minutes played
- XG+XA: 0.24, 10 defensive contributions
- 46 touches, 23/25 successful passes (92%)
- One tackles, seven recoveries, two clearances
- Three duels won, seven lost (Okafor most with 13)
With James and Gnonto likely to be fit when Leeds host Bournemouth next weekend, it will be interesting to see who Farke picks. He might just see a bit more reliability to the defensive stuff, with Aaronson.
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