Leeds United manager Daniel Farke is renowned for his consistency when it comes to selecting his starting XI, but he may be forced into a change when Leeds go to Burnley on Saturday.
Eight players pick themselves in Farke’s XI at the moment. The German gaffer has started the same side for the last four Premier League games, with the defence and midfield largely set to remain the same.
Jaka Bijol’s two clean sheets for Slovenia could tempt Farke to start him over Pascal Struijk, while Lucas Perri is set to return from injury and could come in to start. But there is a new Leeds doubt emerging.
Brenden Aaronson has started the last four league games for Leeds, and has arguably produced the finest patch of form he’s managed since joining Leeds. But there is every chance he could be rested at Burnley.
Photo by George Wood/Getty ImagesNew doubt could see Jack Harrison handed first league start
Aaronson was an unused substitute against Ecuador last week, having been recalled to the USA squad by Mauricio Pochettino. It means he is likely to play against Australia in the early hours of Wednesday.
Kick-off is scheduled for 2am, English time, on Wednesday and by the time Aaronson has finished up and had a recovery day and shaken off the jet lag back at Thorp Arch, it will be Friday. It is a risk to start him.
Especially, given he might play 90 minutes just 72 hours before arguably, Leeds’ biggest game of the season so far. Aaronson is known for his energy, but the Premier League requires players to be 100%.
Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty ImagesJack Harrison’s record against Burnley is spectacular
If Farke was to replace Aaronson, his options are limited. Dan James is sidelined until after the November break, while Willy Gnonto is expected to overcome a calf issue, but won’t have played for a month.
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So, Farke’s only choice in replacing Aaronson is Jack Harrison. It would be his first Premier League start of the season and his first league start since returning to Leeds after two years on loan with Everton.
Yet, Harrison can be Leeds’ secret weapon. His form against Burnley is incredible, winning six of his seven career games against Scott Parker’s side and having a hand in four goals and assists in those games.
If Aaronson is not 100% as the demands of the Premier League require, then Farke has to make a change and Harrison provides him with a player that knows how to do it against Burnley, even away from home.