Would you rather spend Christmas alone or around your boss’s place for a more traditional, German affair? Brenden Aaronson can expect the invite before training finishes at Thorp Arch on Christmas Eve.

Leeds United’s American attacker was asked about his festive plans in the aftermath of Saturday’s Oxford United drubbing. With his family in the USA, he expects to be on his own, making video calls while he counts down to Boxing Day’s clash at Stoke City.

It was news to Daniel Farke when the media told him of his number 11’s plans. The manager’s door is open to Aaronson if he does want to share in the festivities before the trek to the Potteries, though the manager does not expect his offer will be taken up.

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“I didn't even know he would be alone,” he said. “I probably will invite him to mine anyhow, to come around. Not sure if he wants to follow this. He would prefer to be a bit alone.”

After removing his tongue from the corner of his cheek, Farke reflected on the necessary sacrifices professional footballers have to make across Europe at this time of year. He does not think there should be too much sympathy for them, but hopes they can at least create a second family within the club for those who are away from their loved ones.

“So again, sometimes we forget these players are also human beings and not robots and, sometimes, I know, especially when we are living in times with social media, there's sometimes lots of negativity going around,” he said.

“Sometimes it's also difficult for these young guys because they are still young guys, but on the other hand it's also not necessary to have too much sympathy. They are also leading a privileged life and you just can't take all the positives.

“They are living their dream. They are famous football players. They earn lots of money. They are earning their money with their hobby. They are leading a really privileged life and are celebrated after a performance like today.

“You have to take also the negatives, but we, as a group, make sure they feel a second family within the group. When a few players are perhaps alone on festive days, we make sure they can spend it with a few other players or with their families and we look after each other.

“We are also a family here at Leeds United. This is quite important to work a bit on this stuff because everyone can just deliver top performances if they feel really comfortable and we have a good feel factor.

“Not too much because you also need competitiveness, but there are some sacrifices. If you want to be successful in this tough business then you have to give some sacrifices. The players are used to it and they know how it is.”