Brenden Aaronson gets more criticism than any other Leeds United player, and there are a number of reasons for that. But against Millwall, the USA star looked much improved.
Leeds United secured a 2-0 win against Alex Neil’s side to return to the top of the Championship table. The Whites now sit two points clear of Sheffield United with one more game to play before the break.
An own goal and a stunning Ao Tanaka finish was enough to secure the win, a 23rd league win of the season for The Whites. With the pressure on, Leeds managed to capitalise on others dropping points.
Brenden Aaronson continues to earn plenty of criticism for his performances, managing just one goal involvement in his last 13 Championship games. But against Millwall, the American was much improved.
What Aidy White said about Brenden Aaronson’s performance
The £25m man started his 35th consecutive Championship game on Wednesday night as Daniel Farke continues to place his faith in Aaronson. Farke once said Aaronson is capable of Zidane-like passes.
He did produce one against Millwall, his flick for Joel Piroe was majestic before the Dutchman finished – only for the flag to go up. A decision that the officials got wrong, according to onlooking Aidy White.
White spoke about Aaronson after the game on BBC Radio Leeds, praising Aaronson who continues to work hard in the face of doubters among the terraces: “We had a couple of messages at half-time.
“They said he was off it, but I thought it was his best game in ages. He looked lively in possession, sharp on the ball, brushed off it a couple of times – but overall for me, by far his best game for a while.”
Brenden Aaronson’s improved display comes at a surprise time
Aaronson gets criticism because he cost a whopping £25m, played a part in Leeds’ relegation, jumped ship to Union Berlin and often gets shrugged off the ball. He is a constant source of frustration for fans.
Often getting in good positions, always showing moments of magic, Leeds fans know what Aaronson is capable of. A likeable character, many are desperate for him to do well but so often he lets fans down.
Brenden Aaronson’s stats for Leeds United vs Millwall:
- 90 minutes played, 8.0 FotMob rating (third-best on pitch)
- Five shots, six touches in Millwall box, 0.36 XG+XA
- 76 touches, 49 successful passes, 54 attempted
- Three chances created, two passes into Millwall box
- Six defensive actions, one tackle, three recoveries
- Nine duels won (Leeds’ second-highest), five lost
But on Wednesday he was much better even at a time he may have been excused for a poor outing. The Leeds man had just been left out of USA’s squad by Mauricio Pochettino, in a surprise squad omission.
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