Paul Merson says he’s a ‘big fan’ of Brenden Aaronson after what he’s seen: ‘He’s got the X-factor’
Brenden Aaronson has earned his plaudits for his remarkable turnaround at Leeds United this season.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has been the most-talked-about Leeds star this season, and with 10 goals after arriving on a free transfer, that’s warranted.
But Aaronson has comfortably been the Whites’ most improved player in the Premier League this term, and with four goals and three assists, he has justified his continued selection in the starting 11.
Farke has sung his praises throughout the campaign, and rightfully so, with several other pundits also hailing the impact he has had this season.
And Paul Merson is the latest to laud the USMNT star off the back of their 2-2 draw with Chelsea last time out.
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What has Brenden Aaronson done to impress Paul Merson?
Aaronson wasn’t at his best against the Blues midweek, but he still played an influential role in the clash at Stamford Bridge.
The 25-year-old misplaced just one of his 18 attempted passes and was a constant nuisance to Liam Rosenior’s side throughout with his energy and willingness to put in the hard yards.
And that is demonstrated by his Sofascore graphic below that highlights his 4.15 duels won per 90 as well as the other attributes he has on the ball.
It has been a constant theme throughout his performances over the course of the current campaign, and that is what has earned him the latest praise from Merson.
When looking back at the encounter at Stamford Bridge via Sky Sports News, Merson said: ” I like him. He’s lively.
“My thing with him is he didn’t play well against Arsenal. And that sort of knocked his confidence a little bit. But yeah, I like him.
“I think you need that kind of player in your team. You need a little bit of X-Factor, a little bit of energy, and he’s done very well. I’m a big fan of his.”
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Aaronson’s turnaround has been magnificent, but how did it happen?
The uncomfortable truth is that not a lot has actually changed in his game this season compared to last.
However, the biggest difference in each Leeds United encounter now is that there is a signficantly lower amount of pressure, which certainly eases frustrations.
It allows people to see each player for what they are and what they provide, and for Aaronson, while that can be frustrating, it can also be incredibly influential.
He seems to be a player who thrives off confidence, and that has been high ever since he scored a brace in Leeds United’s defeat to Newcastle back in January.
With that said, that was the last time he registered a goal contribution, and if he can achieve the feat again soon, he will undoubtedly get another confidence boost, which will allow him to return to his absolute best.
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