Ao Tanaka leaves Elland Road ‘purring’ after what happened in Leeds United v Watford
Leeds United star Ao Tanaka was spotted lighting up Elland Road by Graham Smyth during the 2-1 win over Watford on Tuesday (22 October).
The Yorkshire Evening Post journalist shared on 23 October that the Japan midfielder produced one moment which left fans “purring” in a performance which “made the game look simple”.
Tanaka dispossessed a Watford player in his box, proceeded to run across the 18-yard area, and then threaded a long pass through the middle which opened up a half-chance for Joel Piroe.
The 26-year-old, signed from Fortuna Dusseldorf for £3.3million late in the summer transfer window, has started United’s last four games following long-term injuries to Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev.
Ao Tanaka puts midfield fears to bed at Leeds United
After Ampadu and Gruev both picked up injuries which will rule them out until the new year [Smyth, 3 October], fans couldn’t be blamed for thinking United’s promotion hopes had taken a significant hit.
While it’s still too early to make a decisive call on the impact the absences will have on the overall picture of this season, Tanaka has proven to be a more than able deputy in the middle of the park.
The Japanese international’s silky displays have ensured that Daniel Farke’s side don’t give up an inch of the control they like to exert over matches, quickly forming a seamless partnership with Joe Rothwell.
Tanaka’s form since his introduction to the starting side arguably makes him undroppable when Ampadu and Gruev do make their returns, giving Farke the strength in numbers he’ll need in the promotion race.
A 2-1 win over Watford takes the Whites joint-top of the Championship after 11 games, and with 35 still to go, Tanaka is set to play a vital role in Farke’s side’s bid to return to the Premier League.
In other Leeds news, Daniel Farke has a decision to make after a key player was ruled out of the match against Bristol City.
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