Gary Rowett wowed by Ao Tanaka footage on Sky Sports in Leeds United win
Gary Rowett was wowed by Ao Tanaka’s “sensational performance” as Leeds United battled to a 4-3 win against Swansea on Sunday.
The Japan international cemented his place in the starting XI with a dominant display in the trip to South Wales on 24 November as Leeds moved to the top of the Championship.
Tanaka was involved in the winning goal too, driving down the left before his ball to Dan James saw Willy Gnonto run in behind to finish and send the away fans wild.
As footage of that goal played on Sky Sports [24 November, 17:15] Rowett said: “I think it was fitting that Tanaka starts the move, James then feeds Gnonto in and he drifts in behind.
“I think it is Darling that plays him onside, at the top of the screen, Tanaka, he was absolutely everywhere, sensational performance.”
Ethan Ampadu is not guaranteed to start on Leeds United return
Ethan Ampadu is nearing a return for Leeds from his long-term injury, but he may not regain his starting XI place due to Tanaka’s form.
The club captain has missed eight matches after suffering a knee injury in the 3-0 win against Coventry City in September (28 September).
Daniel Farke has a tough decision to make when the Welshman returns, with Tanaka forming a great relationship with Joe Rothwell in the engine room for the Whites.
Tanaka is rapidly becoming undroppable on his current form and looks set to continue at the heart of the Elland Road club’s midfield.
The 26-year-old won 12 duels in the contest and made nine recoveries while also driving his team up the pitch with his long passes [Fotmob].
Ampadu might have a tough time getting back into the team while Tanaka is in this kind of form.
In other Leeds news, a BBC pundit thinks that Patrick Bamford will be knocking on the manager’s door after Swansea snub.
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