Leeds United secured a vital 3-1 victory over Nottingham Forest at Elland Road, a win that showcased the growing influence of players like Brenden Aaronson and Ilia Gruev.
Leeds appear to be finding their rhythm. At home, they’ve been a formidable force this season. Brenden Aaronson, once criticised for his lightweight presence in the Premier League, has been a revelation.
With seven goal contributions to his name, the tenacious American has transformed from a source of frustration to a fan favourite. His relentless energy and work rate were on full display against Forest.
Is Brenden Aaronson our best player at the moment? 🔥
Leeds United midfielder Brenden Aaronson
Credit: Molly Darlington/Getty Images
Aaronson won ten duels and provided a dynamic attacking outlet with seven ball carries. His turnaround is a testament to his resilience and determination to succeed at the highest level, under Daniel Farke.
Jon Newsome urged Leeds to sell Brenden Aaronson in summer
Aaronson’s journey in Yorkshire has been a rollercoaster. Everyone is aware of the criticism that Aaronson has endured, with Daniel Farke recently urging angry fans to get off Aaronson’s back and let him play.
Brenden Aaronson v Forest.
Photo by Jon Hobley/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Earlier in the season, Jon Newsome even suggested Aaronson should have been sold. After the loss to Sheffield Wednesday, Leeds’ 1991-92 title winner said: “Sometimes you have to make difficult decisions.
“Sometimes you have to offload people and bring people in. It’s never too late. It is a tough ask to happen in the next six days [of the summer window],” Newsome said, on Aaronson and Joel Piroe.
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There is no chance that Leeds sell Brenden Aaronson, now
But Aaronson has silenced his doubters with a series of impressive outings. Forest was excellent, as was Newcastle and Man United. His contribution on Friday was a perfect example of his newfound confidence.
Fill in the blank: Brenden Aaronson will finish the season with ___ goal contributions? 🤔
The American international is enjoying his best-ever Premier League season
Split images of Leeds United's Brenden Aaronson
Credit: Stu Forster/Getty Images
It’s not just his offensive contributions that have caught the eye; Aaronson’s defensive work rate has been equally commendable. His willingness to battle for every ball is nothing new, but remains just as crucial.
No longer is he the player who shied away from physical battles; Aaronson has become a key figure and his name is one of the first on the teamsheet. Stuart Dallas thinks Aaronson has proved Farke right.
Certainly, with 18 months left on his contract at Elland Road, there could be some interest in Aaronson this summer. Especially, with Aaronson set to go to the World Cup. If anything, he deserves a new deal.
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