What Japanese media said about Ao Tanaka after Leeds United star plays v Australia
Ao Tanaka has caused division among Japanese media after what the Leeds United star did in his latest national team outing.
The 26-year-old was drafted into Japan’s starting lineup to face Australia on Tuesday (15 October) after Wataru Endo was sidelined due to illness.
He could not help the Blue Samurai to victory as the game ended in a 1-1 draw, with own-goals from both sides.
While Leeds fans will be keen to know how Tanaka fared, it appears the Japanese media are unsure themselves.
Football Channel was critical of the midfielder’s performance, giving him a 5/10 rating, and wrote: “Although he had some creative ideas in front of the goal, his overall presence was mediocre. The hole left by Wataru Endo could not be filled.”
In contrast, Ultra Soccer thought he was better than expected, scored him 6/10 and wrote: “He was selected as a starter in place of Endo. At times, he switched roles with [Hidemasa] Morita and provided solid support for his partner. He was involved in chances by going forward, and showed a performance that exceeded expectations.”
J3Plus, meanwhile, wrote via X: “Ao Tanaka, who started in place of Wataru Endo, wasn’t bad, but he wasn’t good either. He played an average game.”
Leeds United hope Ao Tanaka returns unscathed
While fans are always happy to see players excel for their national teams, what is more important for Leeds United is that Tanaka returns unscathed.
Daniel Farke’s side are stretched thin in midfield, with Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev sidelined with serious injuries.
The Whites will be in a crisis if the Japan international joins the aforementioned players on the treatment table ahead of the busy schedule.
Leeds host Sheffield United at Elland Road in the Championship on Friday (18 October) and Tanaka is expected to start despite the quick turnaround.
Farke will not be best pleased with Tanaka playing the full 90 minutes against Australia but must come to terms with his situation.
What is certain, though, is that Leeds United have a player with the right attitude in Tanaka, who recently admitted that he has a lot to improve on.
The former Dusseldorf star is in line for an extended run of games in the lineup and will be determined to prove his worth.
In other Leeds United news, the club could receive a £14million windfall after the latest developments at Elland Road.
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