FLOATING ON AAR

American's dream goal puts Farke and Co in pole position for new year

- IAN BAKER

LEEDS will start 2025 top of the Championship thanks to a goal of real class from Brenden Aaronson.

The American's late strike, following a superb passing move, eventually saw off old rivals Derby who had somehow kept things level until the 79th minute.

Daniel Farke (inset, top) twice led Norwich to the Premier League and he is in pole position to do the same with Leeds this time around.

The delighted German said: "It was a fully deserved win at a tough place.

"We missed too many chances but then scored, for me, the goal of the season.

"I loved it as it was the perfect team move.

"These nights are the best. We are very happy. This is a young and exciting group in such a good position. We need to keep going in the new year."