The winger scored a stunning goal (giving him the benefit of the doubt) and set up another for Emmanuel Riviere in yesterday’s 3-1 win over Schalke 04 in Gelsenkirchen.
Aarons ran half the length of the pitch and crossed for Riviere, who met his ball at the near post to open the scoring.
The 18-year-old, signed from Bristol City two years ago, and netted with a cross that was either worthy of Goal of the Season ... or a miss hit as he was aiming for a player on the right flank.
Alan Pardew: “The real highlight of pre-season has been Rolando.
“He was terrific again. It’s nice to see a young player really pushing, and I thought he caused real problems for Schalke – long may that continue.
“He said he meant that goal.”
Yeah ... we believe him!