How Leeds United stars performed as international games get underway

Leeds United have a healthy contingent of players away on international duty right now.

With FIFA changing the rules, it's an extended break of three weeks away from Thorp Arch for many.

Daniel Farke will take the time to assess a positive start to the Premier League season.

Leeds are currently fifth and unbeaten with the joint-best defence, as their new signings hit the ground running at Elland Road.

And with success, comes more recognition on the international stage.

MOT Leeds News reviews the first bunch to take to the field for their countries on Thursday.

Ao Tanaka - Japan

After a disappointing end to World Cup, Tanaka is back with his country.

It's been a sensational start to the Premier League season for him, starting three games after earning his spot back in midfield.

Japan took on Uruguay on 24 September, winning 3-1 in their first of three fixtures of this break.

Tanaka started on the bench and came on with the scores level in the 77th minute, helping as the Blue Samarai scored twice in added time for victory.

Ethan Amapdu - Wales

It was no surprise to see our skipper in the heart of midfield for his country against Portugal.

Making the jump up to Nations League A means that it was a ridiculously tough away trip to start for Ampadu.

Without his Leeds teammates Harry Wilson and Joe Rodon, who are both out injured, it was a decent result to only lose 1-0.

Ampadu was solid enough and was forced into a lot of work against the likes of Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha, but it just wasn't meant to be.

Dan James - Wales

It was a different role for the winger under Craig Bellamy.

Much like at club level, James was forced to start on the bench and come on to make a difference with his pace when needed.

That came in the 63rd, as he was the first face introduced with David Brooks struggling down the right.

James did well and could have tapped home an equaliser on another day, if not for Ruben Dias' defending.

Anton Stach - Germany

It was a night to remember for Stach, who returned to the German set up again after impressing in LS11.

Starting on the bench against the Netherlands, he was called upon by new manager Jurgen Klopp in the 64th minute.

In his small cameo, Stach managed a key pass and only misplaced two of his pass attempts in the heart of midfield.

Overall, it was a positive start to the break for those from Leeds, who got through their games unscathed and ready to go again.