Leeds United midfielder Brenden Aaronson was one of the players who came off the international break on a good note. In USA’s friendly against New Zealand, Aaronson had a positive impact when he came on.
Local media even suggested that his cameo would convince head coach Mauricio Pochettino ahead of next month’s games. Before the game against Burnley, he was not expected to start straight away – he played the friendly on Wednesday morning, which meant he would be in England later than his other teammates.
But Aaronson did start on Saturday in the loss to the Clarets. Many pointed the finger at him during the game for his performance; he missed a crucial big chance which could have turned the tide. He had a one-on-one but his effort was saved onto the post, Burnley then scored the goal that sealed the game late in the second half.
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Aidy White gives his verdict on Brenden Aaronson
Brenden Aaronson Credit: Imago
Aaronson was eventually taken off when Leeds needed a goal towards the end of the game. Many fans agreed that he should not have even started in the first place. Former Leeds man Aidy White has been speaking about the midfielder on BBC Radio Leeds. White thinks that Daniel Farke has been forced to play Brenden Aaronson due to recent absences in the team:
“I don’t feel he necessarily wants to play Aaronson and Harrison,” White said.
Presenter Jonny Buchan replied: “I don’t know, he defends Aaronson a lot, and he’s had options to play other players out there.
“And he’s defended Aaronson.”
White continued: “But is that because he feels Dan James is his first choice and he’s been injured, and he’s not really got going? His hand has been forced,”
Daniel Farke was not really forced to play Leeds United star
Initially, it was Dan James’ fitness that saw Aaronson start against Fulham. But Daniel Farke did explain that the midfielder brought defensive balance to the team in his new role. Injuries to James and now Gnonto have meant that Aaronson has played more over the last month, but Farke could have gone a different route with a change of system or even opting for Lukas Nmecha or Joel Piroe.
