Today could be the day Leeds United secures their long-awaited return to the Premier League, with the team facing Stoke City at Elland Road in a crucial Championship clash at 3 p.m. If Leeds wins and Sheffield United fails to defeat Burnley in their 5:30 p.m. match, the Whites will be officially promoted. Following their narrow 1-0 victory over Oxford United, Leeds head coach Daniel Farke may opt to freshen up his starting lineup, especially after just two days of recovery. One key change could be the return of Dan James, who is expected to play a pivotal role in Leeds’ promotion hopes.
James, who missed the 2-1 win over Preston North End due to injury, made a brief appearance off the bench in the Oxford match. Now, after being named one of the finalists for the Championship Player of the Season award, it’s time for him to reclaim his spot in the starting XI. The former Manchester United winger has been exceptional this season, registering 12 goals, 16 ‘big chances’ created, and 9 assists in 30 starts. His consistent impact in the final third is precisely what Leeds needs as they aim to seal promotion. With such a significant opportunity ahead, Farke must ensure that his best players are on the field, which means bringing James back into the team at the expense of Brenden Aaronson.
| 24/25 Championship | Brenden Aaronson | Wilfried Gnonto |
|---|---|---|
| Appearances (starts) | 43 (40) | 40 (23) |
| xG | 10.24 | 5.50 |
| Goals | 9 | 6 |
| Minutes per goal | 368 | 345 |
| Big chances created | 8 | 9 |
| Assists | 2 | 5 |
| Stats via Sofascore | ||
Aaronson, the USA international, has struggled to make an impact in recent performances. In the Oxford game, he played 89 minutes but failed to contribute much offensively, missing a key chance, losing possession 15 times, and not creating any chances for his teammates. Described as “anonymous” by reporter James Marshment in February, Aaronson’s form has remained lackluster, with only two goals and no assists in his last 19 appearances in 2025. His ineffective performances highlight the need for a change. In comparison, Wilfried Gnonto has been more productive, even with fewer appearances. To maximize the team’s attacking potential, Farke should drop Aaronson and instead start James on the right wing. This would create a dynamic attacking midfield trio of James, Gnonto, and Manor Solomon, supporting either Joel Piroe or Patrick Bamford in the center-forward role.
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