Aaronson Finishes Off "Poetry"

Aaronson's Winner Sends Leeds Top of the Championship at New Years

Brenden Aaronson's late strike against Derby County not only secured Leeds United's position atop the Championship table heading into 2025 but also drew poetic praise from manager Daniel Farke, who hailed it as his early pick for goal of the season.

The American midfielder's composed finish came at the end of an intricate team move, with Sam Byram initiating the sequence before Manor Solomon and Joel Piroe combined to set up Aaronson for the decisive goal. The victory, Leeds' eighth in their last ten matches, demonstrated both their promotion credentials and Aaronson's continued renaissance under Farke's guidance.

"I'll put it straight away into my poetry album," Farke enthused post-match BBC. "It was a perfect team move and Brenden also came up with a perfect calm finish." 

The German manager's praise highlighted not just the aesthetic quality of the goal but its importance in a match where Leeds had previously been frustrated by Derby goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom's heroics.

The goal marked Aaronson's seventh of the campaign, placing him second in Leeds' scoring charts behind only Joel Piroe. It's a remarkable turnaround for the American international, whose future at Elland Road seemed uncertain following Leeds' relegation and subsequent summer of change. Having started the season with both promise and frustration – scoring an equalizer against Portsmouth on opening day before missing a crucial chance in the same match – Aaronson has emerged as a key figure in Leeds' promotion push.

The victory at Pride Park showcased Leeds' dominance, with Derby failing to register a shot on target in the first half. While the hosts showed more ambition after the break, forcing Illan Meslier into action from Curtis Nelson's header, Leeds' persistence ultimately paid off through Aaronson's well-worked winner.

"Perfect team performance, perfect away performance," Farke reflected Yahoo. "These nights are the best. Tight win, late goal, clean sheet and is perfect for the mood and spirit." The result moved Leeds two points clear of Sheffield United, who had briefly claimed top spot following their 1-1 draw with West Bromwich Albion earlier in the day.

For Aaronson, the goal represents more than just three points – it's the latest evidence of a player who has rediscovered his confidence and form at a crucial time in Leeds' promotion campaign. With his intricate play and growing collection of decisive moments, the American midfielder is proving instrumental in Leeds' bid to secure a return to the Premier League.

Another Robinson Assist

Fullback Provides the Cross for Fulham's Second as Club Remains in Unbeaten in Seven

Fulham's Antonee Robinson demonstrated once again why he's attracting interest from Liverpool and Manchester United, providing another crucial assist in a 2-2 draw with Bournemouth at Craven Cottage. 

The American left-back's deflected cross in the 72nd minute found Harry Wilson, who headed home to give Fulham a temporary lead before Dango Ouattara's late equalizer. The draw, Fulham's fifth in seven matches during this unbeaten run, helped the club move to eigth as of Monday morning

The assist marked Robinson's seventh of the Premier League campaign, putting him third in assists with Mohamed Salah and Bukayo Saka ahead of the defender. His consistent performances have caught the eye of Manchester United's new head coach Ruben Amorim, who is looking to strengthen his left wing-back options amid injury concerns.

Beyond his attacking contribution, Robinson showcased his all-around game against Bournemouth, winning 7-of-11 ground duels and completing 78% of his passes. The 27-year-old created three chances during the match and maintained a strong defensive presence, though Bournemouth's late equalizer denied Fulham all three points.

The American's impressive tally of ten assists in the 2023 calendar year - four more than any other Premier League defender - demonstrates his ability to contribute meaningfully to attacking play while maintaining defensive responsibilities.

Robinson's potential move to Manchester United is the latest transfer rumor to circulate and with the January transfer window approaching, Robinson's consistent performances and attacking output make him an increasingly attractive option for top clubs, who may need to be creative with their transfer budgets. For now, Robinson continues to prove his worth at Craven Cottage, where his stock rises with each impressive display.

Lund Scores First of the Season

Defender Nets Equalizer in Eventual Defeat

The 22-year-old American defender Kristoffer Lund found the target in Serie B action on Sunday, as Palermo suffered defeat against Citadella to remain firmly in mid-table. The goal marked his first of the current campaign, adding to his two-goal tally from last season. His performance against Citadella showcased his growing confidence, with an impressive 89% passing accuracy and two created chances during the match.

While Antonee Robinson remains firmly established as the USMNT's first-choice left-back, Lund's development in Serie B demonstrates his potential. Missing out on November's national team camp hasn't deterred the young defender, who remains focused on his progression at Palermo. The fullback has reclaimed his spot on the left side of defense over the last month with three stats in the last four matches. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Lund's combination of youth and growing experience in European football keeps him in the conversation for future national team consideration.

Different Pulisic Setbacks

Winger Picked-Up New Ankle Injury Before Manager was Sacked

Christian Pulisic’s injury troubles have deepened AC Milan’s challenges in a season marked by inconsistency. After recovering from a calf problem, the USMNT star suffered an unexpected ankle injury during rehabilitation, which ruled him out for Sunday's 1-1 draw with Roma.

 Milan’s top scorer with eight goals and six assists, Pulisic’s absence is a significant blow, particularly as the team struggles to regain form in Serie A. His anticipated return for the Supercoppa Italia semifinal against Juventus on Friday is now a key milestone for both the player and the club.

Pulisic’s importance to Milan has been evident throughout the season, with his versatility and leadership on the pitch often serving as a bright spot. However, the timing of his injury adds to the upheaval at the club, which recently dismissed manager Paulo Fonseca after a string of poor domestic results.

Sergio Conceicao, formerly of Porto, has been appointed as Milan’s new head coach. Known for his emphasis on wide players in his 4-2-3-1 formation, Conceicao’s arrival could create fresh opportunities for Pulisic to shine upon his return. With Milan still alive in the Champions League, Pulisic’s recovery and Conceicao’s leadership may be pivotal in revitalizing the season.

Adams' Slight Injury Hiccup

Midfielder Missed Fulham Draw with Minor Issue

Tyler Adams’ return to form with Bournemouth hit a brief snag as the American midfielder missed the Cherries’ 2-2 draw with Fulham due to a minor muscle injury. Manager Andoni Iraola confirmed Adams sustained the issue during Bournemouth’s Boxing Day clash against Crystal Palace, where he came off the bench. While Iraola reassured fans that the injury is “not something big,” Adams’ absence highlights the ongoing challenges he has faced since joining the South Coast club.

The 25-year-old has battled injuries since his move from Leeds United in 2023, managing just three Premier League appearances in his debut season. Despite those setbacks, Adams has been a key presence this campaign, featuring in nine league games and starting five. His energy and defensive acumen have been vital in Bournemouth’s midfield, especially during their recent fixtures.

Adams’ absence was felt at Craven Cottage, where Bournemouth had to dig deep to secure a dramatic point. Goals from Evanilson and a late equalizer by Dango Ouattara salvaged the result, despite a lengthy injury list that included Adams.

With Bournemouth set to open 2025 against Everton, the club and fans alike will hope Adams’ recovery is swift, ensuring his return to the lineup remains imminent.

Richards Bounces Back

Defender Helps Crystal Palace Rebound with Victory Over Southampton

Chris Richards returned to Crystal Palace’s starting lineup and played the full 90 minutes in their 2-1 victory over Southampton on Sunday, a crucial result that lifts Palace further from the relegation zone. It was only Richards’ second start in three months, having been left on the bench for the Boxing Day draw with Bournemouth following a difficult outing against Arsenal a little over a week ago.

Defensively, Richards delivered a solid, no-nonsense performance. With Marc Guéhi suspended, the American center-back stepped up as a reliable deputy. Richards registered three clearances, two interceptions, and 10 defensive actions and his positional awareness ensured Southampton’s attacking opportunities were limited, even after the visitors took an early lead through Tyler Dibling.

On the ball, Richards was tidy, completing 89% of his passes, including three passes into the final third. While his distribution lacks the commanding confidence of Guéhi, Richards did enough to contribute to a composed defensive effort. Palace’s improved form under Oliver Glasner has eased their early-season struggles, and Richards’ performance underscores his ability to step in when needed. As Palace eyes a stronger second half to the season, Richards will look to build on this confidence-boosting display.