Brenden Aaronson netted his first Premier League goal of the season on Friday as he scored just three minutes into Leeds United's clash with West Ham. It marked Aaronson's second career Premier League goal, with his first coming all the way back in 2022 against Chelsea. The goal was a scrappy one as Aaronson put himself into the right place at the right time.
Getty Images SportWhat happened
In the early moments of the match, Leeds pushed West Ham back, leading to a cross from Jayden Bogle. It found the head of Noah Okafor, who forced a save out of Alphonse Areola, who could only parry it back into play. Aaronson was lying in wait, and the U.S. men's national team midfielder made no mistake as he placed the ball into the back of the net.
AdvertisementWatch the videoGettyThe USMNT angle
Aaronson has been something of a regular with Leeds for years, helping the club win promotion via a Championship triumph last season. This season, he's remained in the XI, featuring nine times in the Premier League as Leeds adjust to life back in the top flight.
"I've been playing a little bit differently this year compared to last year," Aaronson said at USMNT camp earlier this month. "Maybe, I would say, a little bit more defensive. There's not really a 10 anymore, and that was my position last year, but now it's more of an inverted winger and playing between the lines like I always have been. It's just creating and trying to score and continuing to do my job.
"We've always been a pressing team. We've always been a team that wants to be on the front foot, especially at home. This year, we have to take our medicine at times and sit a little back and be in a shape, but I think it suits me. The positions suit me and I'm enjoying it a lot."
Aaronson continues to fight for Leeds goals, but he also has a World Cup on the horizon. Despite playing in the 2022 edition, his place isn't guaranteed in 2026. The midfielder did take part in the USMNT's most recent camp, featuring off the bench in a 2-1 win over Australia after missing September camp and playing limited minutes in the Gold Cup.
Getty Images SportWhat comes next?
Leeds will turn their focus to the final two games before November's international break. Both will come on the road, as they visit Brighton on Nov. 1 and then Nottingham Forest eight days later.
