Ao Tanaka must now step up for Leeds United after injury twist in win v Coventry
Ao Tanaka must step up for Leeds United to cover for Ethan Ampadu who went off injured against Coventry City on Saturday 28 September.
The Whites were able to secure all three points at Elland Road with a 3-0 win over Mark Robins’ side.
Goals from Wilfried Gnonto, Jayden Bogle and Joel Piroe were enough but there was one moment which left a sour taste in the mouth for supporters.
Ampadu was forced off before the half time break through injury after making a challenge, leaving him appearing to punch the turf in pain [Beren Cross].
Daniel Farke could be forced into finding an alternative for his captain for upcoming games if his injury rules him out.
Ao Tanaka could replace Ethan Ampadu for Leeds United
The Wales international is said to be positive in the dressing room after the Coventry win but is still in discomfort after injuring his knee [Adam Pope].
With that being said, it is likely that the skipper could miss the clash against Norwich City coming up on Tuesday (1 October).
If that is to be the case, Tanaka has to step up and fill that void, as he did as a substitute in the win over the Sky Blues.
The Japan international signed during the latest window and hasn’t been able to cement himself as a starting regular under Farke since his move.
This could prove to be the former Dusseldorf star’s route into the first team and pose an opportunity for him to shine in the Championship.
There is no doubt that the 26-year-old has some useful qualities and will likely have an opportunity to showcase them in the upcoming games.
In other Leeds United news, a Sky Sports reporter was left wowed by what one star did v Coventry while live on air.
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