Ao Tanaka, Leeds United midfielder. Credit: Imago

Ao Tanaka spotted in 'world-class' moment before Leeds United v Plymouth Argyle

Senior Correspondent AUTHORITY Senior football journalist specialising in refereeing and officiating; former contributor to The Football League Paper, Late Tackle, and the Premier League; University of Derby graduate. FOCUS Refereeing controversies, football finance and governance, PGMOL decisions, and officiating analysis across the Premier League, EFL, and SPFL. THE INSIGHT Harri utilises a network of officiating and industry contacts to deliver verified, expert analysis of refereeing decisions and PGMOL policy. He provides the regulatory clarity behind the controversy to ensure fans get the full picture.

Published on:

03 Nov 2024, 11:10 am

Graham Smyth spotted Ao Tanaka produce a "world-class" piece of skill during the warm-ups before Leeds United beat Plymouth Argyle on Saturday.

The Japanese international has been vital for Daniel Farke since both Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev sustained long-term injuries earlier this season.

Despite moving from the second tier of German football, Tananka has hit the ground running at Elland Road and was clearly in the mood before Leeds' convincing 3-0 win against the Pilgrims on 2 November.

Writing via the Yorkshire Evening Post [3 November], Smyth spotted: "Ao Tanaka providing a world-class touch to find Sam Chambers as the team went through their possession game in the warm-up.

"The ball was mid-air, flashing past the Japan international when he stuck out a boot to glance it to Chambers."

Ao Tanaka continues to impress with Leeds United display v Plymouth Argyle

Originally brought in as a backup for Gruev or Ampadu, Tanaka is now thriving under the pressure to deliver consistent performances for the Whites.

Gaining promotion to the Premier League is critical this season after missing out so narrowly last term, and the current midfield duo of Tanaka and Joe Rothwell could certainly help towards that.

With 29 international caps to his name, it shouldn't really come as a surprise to see him produce stunning moments when only warming up, but it was unexpected nonetheless.

Leeds United midfielder, Ao Tanaka [Credit: Imago]

He has only started six times in the Championship so far, but it is clear for all to see just how talented the 26-year-old is, what he is capable of on the pitch, and how important he will be for the rest of the campaign.

Until either of his injured midfield duo returns to the pitch, Farke will be comfortable with the knowledge that Tanaka has been one of his brightest performers over the last few matches.

In other Leeds United news, Joel Piroe sent a one-word message to his teammate after what happened v Plymouth Argyle.

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Leeds United

Graham Smyth

Ao Tanaka

Plymouth Argyle