Leeds United employee thrilled by Brenden Aaronson as chart-topping details emerge
Noel Whelan has singled out Leeds United new boy Brenden Aaronson for praise following his “standout” debut at Elland Road.
The former Whites striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 21-year-old is someone “who can control a game” despite his tender age.
Aaronson, who signed from RB Salzburg earlier this summer, was impressive as Leeds United recorded a 2-1 opening day victory over Wolves on Saturday (6 August).
The USA international played a huge part in the Whites’ winner, piling the pressure on Rayan Ait-Nouri, who put through his own net after a tempting ball in from Patrick Bamford.
Aaronson, who came to England with a reputation for his pressing intensity, recorded the most attempted pressures (31) of any Premier League player during the first weekend of action (per FBRef).
As a team, Leeds United attempted the second-most pressures (per FBRef) – highlighting the importance of the midfielder to Jesse Marsch’s philosophy.
Whelan hailed the “tenacious” star for his instant impact in a white shirt.
“I was really impressed,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“Sometimes on the first game of the season, it can be a bit of an unknown for new players coming in.
“Pre-season games can be deceiving at times, but I was really pleased with all the new signings – and Aaronson did really stand out.
“He’s so positive on the ball, moving forward – and that was clear with the second goal. He recognised that Bamford had vacated that space and filled it himself with a fantastic run.
“The ball in from Patrick was inch-perfect, and the defender was just in a horrible position.
“He’s a tenacious player and someone who can control a game, for sure.”
In other news, ex-Leeds United star tells club to sign Premier League star “ASAP” after source’s reveal.