Daniel Farke will be delighted after Ao Tanaka update for Leeds United on international duty

Ao Tanaka coming through Japan's victory over China unscathed is huge for Daniel Farke and Leeds United as the Championship returns.

Having been left on the bench in Japan's 4-0 win over Indonesia four days prior, Tanaka saw out the full 90 minutes as the Blue Samurai stormed to a 3-1 victory in Xiamen in their final match of 2024.

With Farke's side ready to settle in for the busiest period of the season – at least 24 consecutive domestic games before the next international break – he'll be glad to have one of his key men fully fit.

Ao Tanaka influence key for Leeds United ahead of packed schedule

Tanaka has emerged as one of the first names on the United team sheet with his performances since injuries to Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev and continues to impress game-by-game.

Initially used as a substitute for either of the aforementioned pair late in matches, Tanaka has stepped into the limelight in the wake of their injuries and formed a solid partnership with Joe Rothwell.

However, the fact that the 26-year-old has more travel time than most when it comes to international duty, Farke has previously sweated over his sharpness and fitness levels upon his return to Thorp Arch.

The Whites began their last spell between international breaks on a Friday evening against Sheffield United, shortening their preparation time significantly and rushing the likes of Tanaka into contention.

With the longest stretch of the season set to begin with a Sunday (24 November) afternoon kick-off at Swansea City, Farke, Tanaka and the rest of the squad will be hoping to start as they mean to go on.

In other Leeds news, fans will be seething after what Victor Orta said about a failed transfer before United were relegated.

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