Ao Tanaka is Premier League quality – Three things learned in Leeds win vs Everton
Leeds recorded a vital victory in their first game of the Premier League season, securing a 1-0 win over Everton at Elland Road.
New signing Lukas Nmecha scored a late penalty to secure all three points, after James Tarkowski was penalised for a handball.
Leeds put in a terrific performance in the first half as they were the dominant team, and their patience was eventually rewarded as they eventually found the breakthrough.
There were plenty of talking points on a night which saw Leeds win their first Premier League game since 2023, and Daniel Farke will certainly see a lot of positives.
Ao Tanaka can compete at the top level
Midfielder Ao Tanaka was one of Leeds’ best players last season, and arguably the best in his position in the Championship.
Some may have been worried whether he could translate his game to the Premier League, but it is already clear that he is going to keep on thriving.
- Tanaka completed 91 per cent of his 45 attempted passes.
- The midfielder created two chances and fired in two shots, while also completing both his attempted long balls.
Tanaka was outstanding against Everton as he helped win the midfield battle, and there was no difficulty in managing the step up to compete against Premier League opposition.
Anton Stach will become creative force
Summer signing Anton Stach made his Premier League debut in the victory, and alongside Tanaka, the midfielder was a brute force in the middle of the park.
- Stach fired in four shots, which included the deflected effort which led to the penalty.
- The midfielder also created four chances, while winning both of his attempted tackles.
Stach was one of Leeds’ biggest goal threats, and pushed forward well in the second half, while also creating for his teammates.
His long-range shooting caused problems for Everton, and over the course of the season, he can make himself a creative outlet and get on the scoresheet more following his strong debut.
Gabriel Gudmundsson shows flair
Gabriel Gudmundsson also made his debut at left-back, and while Everton offered very little attacking threat, the former Lille star had a comfortable game.
Gudmundsson registered three shots and created two chances from left-back, and won five of his seven attempted ground duels.
The left-back completed four dribbles, more than anyone else on the pitch, and it is already apparent that he is more than just a defender, but someone who can offer creativity in attack for Leeds.
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