Clarke, live on talkSPORT coverage of the contest from Pride Park [29 December, 18:22], criticised Aaronson’s attempt, which was off target, after an “absolutely superb” move from a dominant Leeds side with the first half drawing to a goalless close.
Aaronson would later have the last laugh with a brilliant winner as Leeds ended 2024 on top of the table in a 1-0 win at Pride Park but his first-half shot drew criticism.
“Yeah, it was a lazy finish in the end from Brenden Aaronson. He’s leaning back; his body shape isn’t right to strike that shot on target,” Clarke told commentator Joe Shennan.
“It’s a brilliant breakaway and they’re clever, because Kane Wilson the right-back is the one who’s been fouled on that side and is still on the deck. They target that hole he’s left, and it’s an absolutely superb move.
Leeds United rotate amid demanding schedule
Farke is clearly attempting to navigate the rigorous schedule by dipping into some of the depth at his disposal.
Joel Piroe was dropped to the bench at Derby despite his match-winning double at Stoke City, with Largie Ramazani and Ao Tanaka among the players to come in as part of four changes.
Even with the likes of Dan James rested, the Whites are completely on top in the vast majority of games in the Championship, which begs the question as to how they were unable to achieve promotion last season.
Sheffield United have looked rather uncertain in their last two and Burnley for all their defensive prowess can be stop-start going forward; Sunderland were beaten in the dying embers by lowly Stoke on Sunday.
The door is open for Leeds now, who can gather some real momentum with as many fresh legs as possible, and fans hoping for a positive January of recruitment.
It’s a time to be excited as a Leeds fan.
In other Leeds news, Joe Gelhardt is destined to suit all parties with a January exit.
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