Not many saw it coming. Many wanted Brenden Aaronson dropped from the starting line-up as Leeds United took on West Ham on Friday, and yet, Aaronson was probably the best player on the pitch.
The American has admitted to feeling some self-doubt going into Friday’s clash, and yet, Daniel Farke picked the USA star for the sixth consecutive Premier League game. He scored inside three minutes.
While it was only a tap in, Aaronson’s celebration showed his mindset. His ability to rid himself of the criticism and remain focused at the task in hand. He went on to produce his best display in a Leeds shirt.
He might be nicknamed the Medford Messi, but he almost embodied Lionel when he danced around three or four West Ham players before unleashing an effort that clipped the bar. A stunning performance.
Brenden Aaronson scores for Leeds.
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Troy Deeney picks Brenden Aaronson in his Team of the Week
Leeds fans voted Aaronson as man of the match over the weekend, earning 62% of the vote. Now, Troy Deeney has picked him in his BBC Sport Team of the Week column, describing Aaronson as “monstrous”.
It was a brave call from Farke to retain Aaronson in the starting line-up, with both Jack Harrison and Dan James available. Deeney praised Farke for keeping him in the side, saying he can be a “difference maker”.
“I think that was a huge call to put him in. There has been a bit of a call for him to be dropped. He got the opening goal, missed a few chances in weeks before, but it was a monstrous performance,” Deeney said.
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“He stepped up into the game and took the initiative to be like, ‘I’m going to be the difference maker today’. He showed why he should be in that Leeds team,” Deeney added, praising Aaronson and Farke.
Brenden Aaronson is not just fighting for his Leeds place
If Wales make the World Cup, Dan James will be with Craig Bellamy’s side. Willy Gnonto stands little chance of making the Italy side. But for Aaronson, his place in the USA side is right under the microscope.
An impressive outing during America’s last international break will have helped his chances. But Mauricio Pochettino is only going to pick the former Philadelphia Union if he shines in the Premier League.
Noah Okafor and Brenden Aaronson celebrate during Leeds United v West Ham United - Premier League
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Aaronson has more to fight for then, than simply his place in the Leeds side and keeping Leeds up. He has to shine if he wants to be a part of a home World Cup for USA next summer, a massive incentive.
Friday night was the first sign that Aaronson can provide Leeds with more than just hard work and his unbreakable stamina. He can add quality if he has the confidence and he certainly has that, now.