Leeds United rebounded in a major way on Tuesday night at Elland Road with Weston McKennie excelling in Javi Gracia’s midfield.
The U.S. men’s national team midfielder logged 90 minutes as Leeds United defeated Nottingham Forest 2-1, leapfrogging its visitors and out of the English Premier League relegation zone. Fellow USMNT midfielder Brenden Aaronson played 74 minutes from the start while Tyler Adams remained sidelined through injury.
Orel Mangala’s goal in the 12th minute boosted Nottingham Forest in front 1-0 forcing the Lilywhites to come-from-behind to salvage a needed result. However, Leeds United didn’t take long to respond as Jack Harrison contributed his fourth league goal of the season before Luis Sinisterra sprung Leeds in front before halftime.
McKennie was lively for his entire shift, completing more passes (49) than any midfielder on the pitch. He also won five duels, completed one tackle, and made three recoveries.
Aaronson created three offensive opportunities and completed one tackle before being replaced by Crysencio Summerville midway through the second half.
Leeds United hung on to capture a seventh league victory of the season, moving up to 13th place after starting the day in the bottom three. The Yorkshire club sits two points clear of the relegation zone with four matches remaining against clubs behind them in the standings.
Up next for Leeds United are back-to-back home matches with Crystal Palace and Liverpool.