USMNT's Brenden Aaronson shines as Leeds defeat Stoke on Boxing Day to top English Championship table

U.S. international Brenden Aaronson and Leeds United defeated Stoke City 2-0 Thursday in English Championship action, with the American logging 90 minutes from his attacking midfield position. A brace from striker Joel Piroe sealed all three points as the Whites moved into first place in the league standings as a result of their performance on Boxing Day.

Aaronson didn't have the most impactful match of his season, but he played a vital role in securing all three points on Thursday, running the tempo atop their midfield while connecting their attack through transition.

The 24-year-old completed 27/28 passes, creating one big chance while registering two shots on target. He had 50 total touches and completed six passes into the final-third of the pitch.

Leeds, meanwhile, are now in pole position in the promotion race as they near the start of the second half of the season.

Aaronson recorded a goal and an assist last week in a 4-0 victory over Oxford United to move his G+A tally to eight on the season. He's two goal-contributions away from surpassing his career best, which he set with Salzburg in Austria in the 2021-22 season with 10 goal contributions in league play.

Leeds take on Derby Saturday in the final match of the calendar year. Aaronson will look to return to the scoresheet as they search for their sixth-straight match unbeaten.