Ao Tanaka undroppable after what Leeds United star did v Watford, making mockery of Championship
Daniel Farke would have been thinking the worst after injury blows to Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev at Leeds United.
Losing both midfield stars in just a matter of days could have been disastrous for the Whites if not for the additions of Joe Rothwell and Ao Tanaka during the summer transfer window.
While the former has been praised for being thrown into the starting XI, coming to Elland Road on loan from Bournemouth, the latter is now untouchable in Farke’s squad.
Even once Ampadu and Gruev return from their respective injuries, the manager will find it difficult to find any reason to take the Japanese star out of the midfield.
Following his display during the 2-1 win over Watford on Tuesday (22 October), Opta stat man Jonny Cooper wrote via X: “Ao Tanaka tonight was the first player this season in the Championship to win possession 10+ times (12), make 5+ tackles (6) and complete 50+ passes in a match (57).
“An exceptional all-round performance.”
Ao Tanaka takes Leeds United opportunity with both hands v Watford
While it is no surprise to see the Japan international starring in the Championship, even Farke will admit that it is a little early for the player to be setting standards in the division.
Playing all 90 minutes, the 26-year-old completed 93 per cent of his passes, completed 100 per cent of his dribbles, completed 75 per cent of his long balls, won 83 per cent of his tackles, and even missed a big chance [FotMob].
A goal at Elland Road would have really capped off an incredible Championship display, and Farke could not have hoped for a better performance amid Ampadu and Gruev’s absences.
While he did pick up a yellow card in the clash, it is a little difficult to avoid a caution when getting so involved in the middle of the park, so he can be forgiven for that.
With Tanaka now setting the standard for the entire division, his teammates must step up after Leeds nearly faltered in a disappointing second half against the Hornets.
In other Leeds United news, Illan Meslier was issued an apology live on Sky Sports News after what was accidentally said v Watford.
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