Brenden Aaronson to redeem himself at Leeds United despite ‘harsh’ treatment at Elland Road
Paul Robinson believes Leeds United fans had every right to voice their opinions about Brenden Aaronson against Portsmouth but stated that some of the reaction was “harsh”.
The 23-year-old was involved as a substitute during Leeds’ 3-3 draw with Pompey on Saturday 10 August, scoring an important equaliser five minutes into added time before missing a sitter to claim all three points.
Aaronson was subsequently booed for the last-gasp miss, with the Elland Road crowd sharing their feelings after he left on loan last summer, but Robinson has backed the American to earn their trust again.
Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, he said: “He was always going to get a tough reception after coming back because of the way he left. The fans have a good memory and a very strong affinity to the club. When a player doesn’t behave as expected when wearing the shirt, they have the right to boo.
“I believe he was booed when he came onto the pitch, coming on as a substitute for Wilfried Gnonto. The fans let their feelings be known, which they’ve got every right to do. From Aaronson’s point of view, it’s up to him to win them over.
“You win them over by performances, attitude, application, and winning football matches, showing that you care about the club you play for. The equaliser will go a long way to align some of the boos, but booing his last-minute miss was harsh. He was in the right place at the right time, but it was a poor finish.
“He needs to redeem himself but it’s clear that the manager wants him to stay at Elland Road. If that winning goal had gone in at the end, I think all would have been forgiven. If Leeds fans see positive signs in his performances, he can turn things around.”
Can Brenden Aaronson turn his fortunes around at Leeds United?
The midfielder is stuck in a very difficult situation, but if he is serious about earning back his stripes in West Yorkshire, he is already on track after his cameo against Portsmouth.
Fans were always going to boo the player once he came on, much like Max Wober would have been, but Aaronson must use those feelings to push him forward and help Leeds to claim promotion.
The Elland Road crowd would probably have been more frustrated with the opening-day result against a newly promoted side, but having missed an opportunity to win the game for the Whites, he was always going to face their wrath.
In other Leeds United news, Norwich City have made a squad decision about Jonathan Rowe in a new Elland Road transfer twist.
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