(Credit: Imago)

Jacob Raw

Tue 7 April 2026 20:40, UK

Sean Longstaff could see his game time take a healthy boost for Leeds United to end the season, with Daniel Farke‘s agenda against Ao Tanaka a problem.

Anton Stach’s injury in the quarter-final FA Cup win against West Ham on Sunday has left the Whites with something to fear.

The German has suffered ligament damage, but the extent of the injury has yet to be disclosed.

Two obvious candidates to replace Stach are Longstaff and Tanaka, and it’s going to be a crucial call that could change the course of the Whites’ season.

However, Farke doesn’t seem to like playing Tanaka in the Premier League at the moment, even though he is the man for the job now.

Daniel Farke has already proved he’s not a fan of Ao Tanaka

Tanaka was a big part of Leeds’ promotion season last campaign, but has been unable to make as much of an impact in the Premier League this season.

The Japanese star was used more frequently in the earlier stages of this season, and his performance against West Ham sent Farke a message.

Tanaka was taken off in the 69th minute against the Hammers, which provides hope that he will start in Leeds’ next Premier League game against Manchester United.

Not only does he offer athleticism in the middle of the park, but that bite and enthusiasm that’s needed to keep the Whites in the big time.

However, Longstaff has already been tipped to replace Stach, with the latter possibly out for the rest of the season.

What happens with Ilia Gruev?

Ilia Gruev has also been used by Farke perhaps more than expected this season, as the Bulgarian has 15 league starts to his name.

The 25-year-old also featured at the London Stadium last weekend, and replaced Tanaka, while helping the Whites eventually win the game on penalties.

Longstaff remained on the bench for the entire 120 minutes, but that may hint that Farke is saving him for the league.

Gruev will surely be further down the pecking order despite his game time against West Ham, with the two to choose from being both Longstaff and Tanaka.

Who Farke goes with for the run-in is unclear at this stage, but with Stach out, the Leeds boss may have to test different midfield combinations.