“He misses more chances than Illan Meslier, which ultimately costs Leeds, leading to their loss. Leeds won’t achieve automatic promotion with players who squander such opportunities,” said a BBC pundit, pointing out that it was another player, not Meslier, who let Leeds down in stoppage time against Sunderland.
Illan Meslier will remain in the spotlight for Leeds United over the next two weeks, but pundit Jon Newsome believes he wasn’t the only one responsible for the team’s recent performance against Sunderland.
Leeds was close to securing a commendable 2-1 victory over the Championship leaders, but Meslier’s late error cost Daniel Farke’s side crucial points. After their exertions against Norwich City, Leeds appeared fatigued in the closing moments at the Stadium of Light, opting to defend their narrow lead.
In a critical moment during stoppage time, Meslier misplayed a bouncing ball, allowing Sunderland to equalize in the 97th minute. Junior Firpo, who looked set to be the hero for Leeds, was instead credited with an own goal and was seen leaving the pitch in frustration.
Newsome pointed out that Brenden Aaronson also contributed to Leeds’ struggles. Following their go-ahead goal, Leeds allowed Sunderland possession and effectively limited their chances. However, they also struggled to pose a threat on the counter-attack.
Aaronson had a key opportunity to seal the match when he received a well-placed pass from substitute Isaac Schmidt. Positioned just outside the box, he had ample time to either shoot for goal or pass to Wilfried Gnonto, but his effort deflected off a defender.
Speaking on BBC Radio Leeds, Newsome emphasized that Aaronson should have done better, suggesting that had he converted, Meslier’s mistake would have been irrelevant. He stated, “In the grand scheme of things, that chance should have been a simple pass into the goal or to Gnonto. We need to be more clinical if we aim for automatic promotion.”
Despite having performed well since his return to the number 10 role, Aaronson struggled in this match, appearing overwhelmed by the physical demands. Given the packed Championship schedule and the distance he covers, his fatigue was understandable.
Unfortunately, Aaronson’s situation is complicated by his call-up to the USA squad for their upcoming matches, including a game in Mexico just before Leeds faces Sheffield United on Friday, leaving him little time to rest and recover.
