Brenden Aaronson can solve Leeds United midfield puzzle after new revelation
Brenden Aaronson could be the answer for Daniel Farke as he looks to solve his injury crisis in midfield at Leeds United.
The Whites’ midfield stocks have been hit for six over recent weeks after Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev were both ruled out for months within the space of four days.
As a result, Farke has been forced to field Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell in defensive midfield roles, but Aaronson could be another option having admitted he’s comfortable operating in a deeper position.
In quotes reported by Leeds Live (10 October), Aaronson said: “Where I’m playing at my club right now, the number 10 and in between the lines, maybe as an eight too, is my best position.
“I’m just trying to keep playing there and getting better and better.”
USA manager Mauricio Pochettino added to this, saying: “He can play on the right or the left, number eight, (number) 10 – he looks very professional, his standards are very high.”
Brenden Aaronson change can unlock Leeds United
Since arriving at Elland Road, Farke has largely stuck rigidly to the trusted 4-2-3-1 formation which saw him win promotion with Norwich City twice in three seasons, with 3-4-3 being his other go-to option.
However, the Whites did storm the Championship not too long ago utilising a flexible 4-1-4-1 formation, and if Farke does drop Aaronson further back, this switch-up could make United more solid defensively.
Calls for Tanaka to displace Gruev were already growing before his injury, and playing the Japanese international as an anchor would allow Aaronson to be effective in both directions as a number eight.
With Wilfried Gnonto excelling whenever he drifts into the central role usually occupied by Aaronson, and Manor Solomon and Daniel James both due to return [LeedsLive, 7 October], Farke is spoilt for choice further forward.
To fit so many options into his side, Aaronson dropping deep to provide the link between attack and defence may be the best way possible for Farke to cultivate a formidable attacking force.
In other Leeds news, United could be set for massive changes after a new development at minority shareholders Red Bull.
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