I’m intrigued as to how Brenden Aaronson will handle life back in the Premier League with us – and also whether Daniel Farke will play him.
Certainly, he got fans back onside last term with some great performances in the Championship and definitely was a key part of our title-winning campaign. It feels to me like he is getting better; both technically and physically. I don’t think his work-rate has ever been in doubt to most fans.
However, he did get caught out during our last spell in the English top-flight and I became frustrated at times. He was billed as being a classy signing when he joined us; especially given his pedigree, having come from Red Bull Salzburg – a club renowned for developing top, young players.
This term, I think – especially with the way that Farke sets us up and asks us to play, that Aaronson might feel a lot more comfortable playing in the Premier League and, I think he might get the protection he needs from the gaffer, who will likely know which games will suit him.
I also foresee a tweak in tactics. Based on our signings so far, which appear to be very physical, it suggests that we won’t be playing our buccaneering style of football (at least for the majority of games), but instead, looking to break on the counter-attack. This is, I think, where Aaronson could prove to be somewhat of a maverick for opponents.
While we could still sign a number 10 and even a wide player, which could mean Aaronson doesn’t start many matches, I think he can still be of use – and he is very much integrated already in the side.
The fact that he can operate in a number of positions is also a good sign. I have no concerns at all about his work-rate – which he will need in the Premier League – he can be frustrating for opponents as will harry them until the final minute.
Could Goals Be On The Agenda?
Of course, he chipped in a number of times last term and, because he is clever at finding space – especially in the opposition box, he could do the same in the Premier League.
Certainly, there will be teams where he will find it hard to find space, though, definitely, he has the potential to get on the scoresheet a number of times. For sure, he is one player that I am definitely intrigued about and it will be interesting to see how he does this term.
