Lee Hendrie wowed by ‘outstanding’ Leeds signing after what he’s seen
Leeds United currently hold a five-point advantage in the race for automatic promotion in the Championship.
Third-placed Burnley will face a tough task to catch the Whites as they seem set to secure Premier League football next campaign.
Daniel Farke‘s charges have taken the second tier by storm this season, scoring the most goals by a considerable margin and conceding the second least, with only the Clarets shipping less.
The German did not feel the need to add to his squad in the winter transfer window as the quality that he was looking for was not available.
Hendrie wowed by ‘outstanding’ Leeds United ace
One Whites ace in particular has caught Lee Hendrie’s eye since joining the Elland Road outfit last summer.
The former Aston Villa man picked out Ao Tanaka for praise before the 4-0 win over Watford on Tuesday, hailing his impact since arriving from Fortuna Dusseldorf.
Speaking on Sky Sports News (11 February, 19:36 pm), he said: “Tanaka, what a signing he has been, I mean he has been outstanding in midfield for them, a real driving force.”
Tanaka emerges as a key player for Leeds United
The emergence of the Japan international has been nothing short of sensational for Daniel Farke’s side in this campaign.
The 26-year-old was not expected to be a regular starter after a £2.9 million move from Fortuna Dusseldorf in the summer but has secured a starting spot in a surprising but pleasant twist for Whites supporters.
He looks like a top-flight midfielder in the making and has rapidly become a fan favourite at Elland Road through his standout performances while Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev were out with injury.
The Japanese star has continued to operate at that same level and has earned a place in the starting line-up when everyone is fit on the merit of his stunning displays giving Farke a selection headache with the riches at his disposal in the centre of the park.
Tanaka is undroppable at the moment as the German looks to guide his side towards a Premier League berth for next season.
If he maintains his current levels, Leeds may not be able to keep hold of him as surely higher reputation clubs will recognise his quality and come calling for his signature.