Credit: Imago

Josh Edwards

Thu 16 April 2026 15:10, UK

Ao Tanaka looks set to start for Leeds United again when they face Wolves.

The Japan international’s omission throughout the campaign has been baffling, though injuries have afforded him a chance to prove his worth.

And in recent weeks, he has certainly achieved that, with a string of impressive performances against solid opposition.

While he may not have had a goal or an assist, the 27-year-old was influential in Leeds’ latest win over Man United.

However, fears will have emerged that Tanaka would be replaced by Anton Stach once the German returns from injury, and while that may hold true, time is still on his side.

What has Daniel Farke said about Anton Stach?

Stach has undoubtedly been one of, if not Leeds United’s best players this season, and his recent absence has certainly been felt.

The German has been influential at both ends of the pitch, but his ability to carve out opportunities, especially from set pieces, has certainly been missed.

However, he was absent at Old Trafford, with Tanaka starting in his place, and that is likely to be the same when the Whites welcome bottom-placed Wolves to Elland Road this weekend.

Ahead of the clash, Daniel Farke said: “All the players who were available for the Manchester United game are also ready for this game.

“For the other players who are injured, Joe Rodon, Daniel James and Anton Stach, the first step is that they are back in team training, and if they have a bit of team training, then they are also available for the games.”

Tanaka must take Leeds chance in Stach absence

He certainly has done so far, but if Tanaka is to have a future with Leeds, he needs to keep that level of performance right up until the end of the season.

Tanaka has been linked with an exit from Leeds as a result of his lack of gametime prior to now, with a measly price tag of just £8.6million mooted for the midfielder.

Farke will waste no time in putting Stach back into the team upon his return to fitness, and Tanaka has to ensure that her perfoprms well enough to avoid being the sacrifice yet again.