Former USA international Alexi Lalas says 'so many people' are watching Leeds United this season because of their American representation.
American soccer fans have got their eyes firmly fixed on Elland Road, watching the progress of internationals Brenden Aaronson and Tyler Adams and manager Jesse Marsch. Last Sunday, when Aaronson scored in the 3-0 win over Chelsea, he became the first American player to score for a side coached by an American manager in Premier League history.
The Whites have started the new season in impressive fashion, finding themselves unbeaten after their first three matches. Aaronson and Adams have been two of the star performers, with both players particularly catching the eye in the win against Chelsea.
READ MORE: Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink got 'goose bumps' the first time he saw Elland Road
Former LA Galaxy defender Lalas believes the Whites' successful start to the campaign is largely down to Marsch's tactics, and he has also hailed his man-management skills.
"You're seeing, I think - I don't know if it's the ideal but it's certainly a new and improved type of Jesse Marsch team that enables him to do the things that I think he longs to do in the game," Lalas said on his State of the Union Podcast. "And that obviously is that incredible pressure.
"Also, it's not just about the tactical part of it, it's about that spirit and the belief that he instils in his players. And he hedges his bets because he gets players that will do that. But I think that it just played out perfectly.
"Just in general, it couldn't have gone better for Leeds. The reason (why) I and so many people are watching Leeds and the reason why Twitter and social media blows up because of that is because of the American influence.
"It's because there are Americans there. We are not Leeds fans, we are America fans and that is why we are watching. And by the way, hook, line, and sinker, because that is part of the strategy of what Leeds is doing.
"Now, it's not at the expense of a good team. Obviously this team is exciting, this team is something that people will want to see. And this team is beating supposed better teams in the likes of Chelsea. I don't know how long this is going to last. I hope it continues on."
READ NEXT:
Leeds United finally confirm general sale date of new home strip after supply delays
Leeds United line-up vs Barnsley with Liam Cooper among 11 changes at Elland Road
'I knew' - Joe Gelhardt opens up on Victor Orta presentation that prompted Leeds United transfer
Leeds United fringe options left in no uncertain terms what Barnsley clash means for them
We simulated Leeds United vs Barnsley to get a Carabao Cup score prediction
