Jato
Jamie Carragher: Which Leeds Player Daniel Farke Must Drop Against Bournemouth
There’s no question that Leeds United’s season so far has had its moments: promise, flashes of invention, but also serious concerns. And with Bournemouth arriving at Elland Road, flying high in the Premier League with a well-drilled side under Andoni Iraola, this is one of those fixtures where Daniel Farke needs every decision to be spot on. Unfortunately, there is at least one player whose recent output suggests he should be dropped.
Who? Brenden Aaronson.
Yes, harsh as it sounds, Aaronson needs to be pulled from the starting lineup. The American has had a number of games now where he has failed to influence matches in any meaningful way, and against Bournemouth, Leeds cannot afford that sort of drift.
Here’s the evidence:
In the predicted XI vs Bournemouth, it is noted that fans are hoping for Aaronson to be replaced. The reasons are clear: his performances have been underwhelming.
In the same preview, the suggestion is that if he carries on, Gnonto or Dan James might be more effective in his place.
Also, in other recent matches he has been criticised for lack of impact—few shots, few duels won, not enough defensive contribution. Against a side like Bournemouth, who mix speed on the flanks with disciplined structure, Leeds need players who contribute on both ends. Aaronson has been found wanting in those metrics. While he brings energy, his influence has waned.
Putting Aaronson on the bench doesn’t only serve as a wake-up call—it gives Farke tactical flexibility. If Gnonto or Dan James starts, Leeds might get more threat from wide areas or from rapid transitions. Bournemouth will press, will look to exploit spaces behind, will try to shut down midfield link-ups. Using players who are more dynamic, more direct, perhaps more willing to gamble in attack or speed in pressing, could be the difference.
What Aaronson is good at
It’s fair to say Aaronson has many good attributes: work rate, pressing, willingness to run. But football at this level rewards end product—goals, assists, chances created—and consistency. Lately those have been in short supply from him. Against Bournemouth, who are unlikely to just sit back, Leeds will need more penetrative play, more incisiveness.
What dropping him would signal
Dropping Aaronson sends a message: performances matter, every starting place is earned. More practically, it forces others in the squad to step up. It gives Farke the chance to rotate out someone not delivering, possibly shake up formation, or change the style in certain areas—especially in midfield or wide attack.
—
Conclusion
To beat Bournemouth at Elland Road, Leeds can’t afford deadwood—players who are taking up space but not influencing the game sufficiently. Brenden Aaronson’s recent run suggests he is underperforming, and Farke must be bold: bench him. Bring in someone sharper, more incisive, or adjust the tactical setup. It might just be the change needed to get all three points.
admin
Rasheed
