Daniel Farke
Daniel Farke Credit: Imago
Squad depth is a very important concept in the Premier League and Leeds United have adapted to that. Last summer, the club made sure to stock each department with options.
The Whites had Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Joel Piroe and Lukas Nmecha as forward options throughout the season.
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And Ao Tanaka, Sean Longstaff, Ilia Gruev, Ethan Ampadu and Anton Stach in midfield.
Some of the backup players in the team really came up big as they helped Leeds United avoid relegation. Karl Darlow stepped up when Farke decided to bench Lucas Perri.
And when there were injuries at centre back and left back, James Justin filled in despite being a natural right back.
Leeds have a £50m problem Farke must solve
Dan James and Brenden Aaronson. Credit: IMAGO
This Leeds United side has gotten off to a solid start to the season, fifth place in the league after five games. Going unbeaten after games against Brighton and Brentford is impressive.
There have been some standout peformers in these early games for the Whites.
New signings James Trafford, Tarik Muharemovic and Nico Elvedi have been solid. Trafford has proved to worth the money and Muharemovic has already earned some serious plaudits.
However, some members of the squad have failed to start the season on a good note.
Daniel Farke has always had a soft spot for two players; Dan James and Brenden Aaronson. The duo have been out of form since the end of last season; James did not score a goal or provide an assist.
Aaronson did have nine goal contributions in the league, but the all round performances were lacking.
After the international break, Farke will have to ask a lot of the duo if this Leeds team is to continue their great run.
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Why it is important for James and Aaronson to be on form
Leeds are without Joel Piroe and Wilfried Gnonto this season. The two may not have been starters last year, but they did provide important depth for when the starters needed rest.
This season, Farke has Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha as the senior centre forward options.
Harry Wilson and Noah Okafor are the only other forwards who fit into the front three in Farke’s system. Aaronson and James can play in these roles when needed, making them very important.
Jean-Matteo Bahoya is an option, but he seems more of a project that the club will have patience with.
Aaronson’s versatility is key in this team, and Dan James’ speed is still a threat up fort.
Noah Okafor and Ao Tanaka
Noah Okafor and Ao Tanaka
Leeds United fans will love this if he arrives at Elland Road Credit: Imago
Leeds United fans will love this if he arrives at Elland Road Credit: Imago
Leeds United
Leeds United