Leeds United and Japan midfielder Ao Tanaka

Leeds United told to take Ao Tanaka and Ilia Gruev action after Elland Road injury update

Dan is a sports journalist who graduated from the University of Gloucestershire with a first-class degree in Sports Journalism. Dan has a huge love for football and has spent time inside newsrooms throughout his time at university. Away from his laptop, he enjoys playing Sunday League football, or watching whatever football, cricket or whatever sport he can find.

Published on:

30 Sep 2024, 12:40 pm

Graham Smyth has told Leeds United to wrap both Ao Tanaka and Ilia Gruev in cotton wool after a new injury update at Elland Road.

Daniel Farke confirmed in a press conference on Monday (30 September) that Ethan Ampadu would be set for an extended spell on the sidelines having picked up a knee injury in the win over Coventry.

Although the Whites have plenty of depth in the middle of the park to cover in Welshman's absence, Yorkshire Evening Post journalist has urged Leeds to take extra care of both Tanaka and Gruevn in the meantime.

Writing on X on Monday (30 September) he said: "No one wanted Tanaka to get his introduction in this way, but he and Gruev should still be a very formidable midfield.

"An international midfield. Just got to keep them both fit. Wrap them and the CBs in cotton wool."

What has happened to Ethan Ampadu at Leeds United and Elland Road?

Leeds United made the bold decision to head into this season with a small first-team squad. While that has worked well for Farke so far, the true depth and quality of his team will now seriously be put to the test.

Ampadu is arguably one of the Whites' most important players. Since arriving at Elland Road last summer the Wales international has thrived both in midfield and defence and played a crucial role in Leeds' success.

Luckily, the signing of Tanaka does give Farke a bit more depth in the middle of the park, but behind the Japanese international and midfield partner Gruev, the Leeds boss doesn't have many alternatives to call upon.

No one wanted Tanaka to get his introduction in this way, but he and Gruev should still be a very formidable midfield. An international midfield. Just got to keep them both fit. Wrap them and the CBs in cotton wool. https://t.co/dKpO8QJImG
— Graham Smyth (@GrahamSmyth) September 30, 2024