The #LUFC Breakfast Debate (Friday 21st March) Is it too late to experiment with playmaker role
Good Morning. It's Friday 21st March, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
Is it too late to experiment with playmaker role?
Brenden Aaronson’s recent performance at Loftus Road delivered a moment of unintended irony. After a barren spell of 15 games without an assist, the American midfielder finally played a crucial pass – unfortunately, it was straight to the feet of Koki Saito. This wasn't the creative spark Leeds fans hoped for, but rather a moment that starkly highlighted both Aaronson’s typical hustle and a frustrating lack of composure that can undermine his contributions.
The immediate consequence for Aaronson was stark. For the first time this season, manager Daniel Farke hooked him at half-time. A substitution that early speaks volumes, suggesting this error was not just a minor blip but a representation of deeper frustrations with the player's current form and decision-making in key moments. Sitting in the dugout for the second half at Loftus Road must have been a bitter pill for the usually energetic midfielder to swallow, potentially marking a watershed moment in his season.
To solely focus on this error would be to ignore the broader picture of Aaronson’s contribution to Leeds. He is undeniably a tireless worker, consistently covering more ground than any other player in the Leeds squad. Across all competitions, including international duties, he's racked up an impressive 46 appearances this season. Farke himself has repeatedly praised Aaronson’s relentless running and its importance to the team's overall system. Even when Aaronson was deployed in a less natural No. 10 role earlier in the season, before a settled XI emerged, his work rate was consistently valued.
The underlying implication, often hinted at by Farke’s team selections and comments, is that Aaronson’s sheer effort compensates for his potential shortcomings, subtly implying that while Gnonto might possess more flair or attacking threat, he perhaps doesn't offer the same level of defensive work rate and ground coverage.
Farke has had ample opportunities throughout the campaign to test different combinations and player roles, particularly when Leeds have enjoyed comfortable leads. Whether this latest incident with Aaronson will prompt a rethink or strengthen Farke's resolve in his current approach remains to be seen.
Harrison has no intention of returning to Leeds
Jack Harrison has expressed his heartfelt commitment to Everton, sharing his aspirations in an exclusive interview with the club's official media outlet. The 28-year-old winger, who joined the Toffees two summers ago after leveraging a contractual loophole with Leeds, is keen to stay with the blue side of Merseyside, setting his sights on breaking into the England squad.
Transitioning to Everton has proved beneficial for Harrison, especially given the turbulence at Leeds, where lingering animosities could complicate any potential return. His choice to remain at Everton not only reflects his desire for stability but also highlights his ambitions on a national level. Despite the challenges Everton has faced, including flirtations with relegation and financial controversies, Harrison remains optimistic and focused on his growth as a player.
On a personal level it's been difficult and frustrating so far this season because I always want to be at my best and when you're doing absolutely everything you can but it's still not coming off, that can be really frustrating for everyone, myself and the fans. I've been trying to understand those frustrations and trying to do something about it in different ways. I'm the type of player to always keep fighting, always keep trying to find ways to navigate through tough situations, and, ultimately, I know I'll come out on the other side.
Some people might say 'You're maybe getting on a bit in your career', or something, but I still have a goal I've always had, that is to get into the England squad and be part of a top team in the Premier League, and hopefully I can do that with Everton. I think with new ownership, new manager, and going to an amazing new stadium next season, this is somewhere I want to be. It would be exciting to be part of a bigger picture and help a club get from where we have been for the past couple of years to fighting for European football again, and then even more in the way of silverware.