Leeds United return to winning ways after losing their last two games to Tottenham Hotspur and Burnley, respectively. The away day at Turf Moor was especially tough, as the Whites suffered a 2-0 loss despite dominating the field.
The Clarets managed to score twice in just three shots on target, while the Yorkshire-based outfit, on the other hand, couldn’t net one with the same statistic.
Things were different against the Hammers, though, as Daniel Farke’s men managed to convert at Elland Road. Nuno Espírito Santo continued his streak as the manager hasn’t managed to win a single game for West Ham United so far.
Farke, on the other hand, will be brimming with confidence as the Whites managed to beat a regular Premier League outfit. Midfielder Ao Tanaka also started the game after a long time, courtesy of his injury suffered against Arsenal.
Tanaka on Leeds-West Ham win
Ao Tanaka has only made substitute appearances post-injury (Credits: Imago Images)
After injuring his inner ligament in the 5-0 loss against Arsenal, the Japanese international missed a few games before coming off the bench for the club.
Tanaka finally managed to start again for Leeds United as the midfielder displayed an impeccable performance at Elland Road. The 27-year-old footballer was happy, but was also focused on the improvement aspects of the game.
“We knew this was a big, important game for us. Of course, winning is winning. It is a good three points for us. I played for the first time after I got injured.”
“Yeah, I enjoyed the time, but I have to improve a lot. So, this feeling is important. I enjoy playing football, and I can find what I need to improve.”
On the best league in the world
Tanaka has been one of Farke’s favourites last season in the EFL Championship. However, increased competition and an injury reduced his role under the German gaffer.
The Japanese footballer’s finesse and technicality are undeniable, but many pundits have pointed out his lack of physicality to be a problem for the English top flight.
Despite the challenge, the Kawasaki native is enjoying the challenge and is focused on getting used to playing at the level of the Premier League.
“This is important, and I have to improve for the next game. The Premier League is the best league in the world, and every game is like so difficult. The opponents are so good, but this is what I want.”
“Of course, this is my dream, but I need to get used to playing at this level, so this is important. This full game and the international break was so important for us. So, especially this game, we played at home and we had to win. Not just one point, we had to win this game. We could do this, so we are so happy to get these points here.”
