Farke loses mind over ‘unbelievable’ Tanaka after Leeds win v Luton
Ao Tanaka “can do everything” after an unbelievable display for Leeds United against Luton Town, Daniel Farke has said.
Speaking in his post-match press conference following United’s 3-0 win (27 November), Farke singled out Tanaka for high praise after another strong performance from the Japan international in midfield.
Having already gained the nickname of “Tiger” at Elland Road, Farke added that Tanaka’s ability to not feel the pressure in a “shirt so heavy” has helped him adapt into life at Leeds extremely quickly.
In quotes reported by LeedsLive, he said: “He is technically so outstanding – Tiger Tanaka can do everything.
“He is an unbelievable signing so far. Quality with and without the ball is outstanding. Not played in a top league yet.
“(He) delivers like this in a shirt so heavy is outstanding. The best judgement is when you see the team-mates and they have so much fun with him and celebrate with him.”
Ao Tanaka proving to be signing of the season for Leeds United
United’s 3-0 win over Luton was one of the most one-sided matches seen at Elland Road this term, and although Sam Byram, Joel Piroe and Dan James all got on the scoresheet, it’s Tanaka taking the plaudits.
When Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev picked up months-long knee injuries over back-to-back matches in September and October, it looked as if the Whites’ automatic promotion hopes had taken a serious hit.
However, with Tanaka and Joe Rothwell slotting in at the base of Farke’s midfield, United’s form has only gone from strength to strength, as Tanaka pulls the strings with ease despite only arriving recently.
Having only signed from Fortuna Dusseldorf in late August, and being away on international duty with Japan three times already this season, it’s surprising just how how well Tanaka has settled in.
Although new year returns are scheduled for both Ampadu and Gruev, Farke will be in no hurry to rush the duo back to his starting XI, and on current form, both will be fighting for a place alongside Tanaka.
In other Leeds news, one out-of-favour United star looks set to make an inevitable exit from Elland Road, albeit not straight away.
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