Credit: Imago

Jonathan Burnett

Fri 21 February 2025 19:30, UK

Daniel Farke could drop Brenden Aaronson as one of three changes when his Leeds United side take on Sheffield United on Monday.

Leeds head to Bramall Lane for a Yorkshire Derby which is also a top-of-the-table clash in the Championship, with the Whites sat two points clear of Sheffield United at the summit on 72 points.

Daniel Farke‘s side produced one of this season’s most dramatic comebacks to beat Sunderland in their last match at Elland Road; Pascal Struijk coming on late to score twice, including in the very last minute.

Buoyed by their last-ditch 2-1 win over the Black Cats, Leeds now take on the Blades with a chance to go five points clear at the top – and potentially 10 clear of third place in the automatic promotion spots.

Farke to axe Brenden Aaronson for Leeds United v Sheffield United

Although a 2-1 win over a promotion rival – particularly in the circumstances it came amid a fervent atmosphere in LS11 – suggests no changes will be made, that’s unlikely to be the case at Bramall Lane.

Farke won’t be on the touchline to make in-game changes himself against Chris Wilder’s side, with a touchline ban upheld following his yellow card picked up amidst the wild celebrations at Elland Road.

Manor Solomon is the most significant doubt to appear in Monday’s match after picking up a knock against the Black Cats, and it’s unlikely Farke will risk the winger from the off given he’s missed training.

Ilia Gruev – whose direct replacement Struijk proved to be the difference-maker on Monday – failed to impress against Sunderland, and despite being a valued defensive-minded option, he could drop out.

Aaronson, who has been an ever-present for Farke in the number 10 role this season, was also unable to truly make his mark against Sunderland, but his removal from the side opens up an all-new option.

Joe Rothwell to take up brand new Leeds role v Sheffield United

Aaronson dropping out of the side on Monday would certainly raise some eyebrows, but after his two assists for Struijk’s brace against Sunderland, Farke simply has to find a starting place for Joe Rothwell.

The 30-year-old Bournemouth loanee provided the guile, passing and, crucially, set-piece ability which turned the game on its head, teeing up both Struijk headers after coming on alongside the Dutchman.

With Struijk all-but certain to come back into the XI after his impact in the second half, Ethan Ampadu will likely step up into midfield despite a shaky display against Wilson Isidor, and will take Gruev’s place.

There’s an argument that Rothwell could displace Ao Tanaka next to the skipper, but with Farke likely to have defensive solidity in mind, it’s surely Aaronson who’ll drop out instead of the Japanese international.

Rothwell, with his superior passing and ball-striking ability, at number 10 role could really unlock the Blades defence, giving Farke a brand new creative outlet to compliment his front three.

That front three is set to consist of Joel Piroe and Dan James as usual, but with Solomon’s availability unclear, Largie Ramazani – who also played a part in Struijk’s winner – could come in on the left flank.