Ao Tanaka could be drawn into Leeds United’s starting 11, one journalist notes. Joe Rodon is doubtful for Saturday’s match against Cardiff City, so manager Daniel Farke has to figure out how to compensate for this absence.
The 26-year-old Japanese international has only managed two substitute appearances against Hull City and Burnley since his deadline day move to Elland Road from Fortuna Düsseldorf.
Tanaka brings a fresh dynamic to the midfield with his creativity standing out compared to his new teammates. Paired with his strong defensive awareness, he might be just what Leeds needs to break through Cardiff’s defense.
Will Ao Tanaka get his first Leeds start?
Farke has the final call, but there’s plenty of conversation regarding how the German manager should line up his squad for a bounce-back win against the Bluebirds. Nonetheless, journalist Graham Smyth believes Tanaka is in line for his first Leeds start.
“Say for instance, Rodon didn’t play, it brings Tanaka in because Ampadu drops back, Gruev is the No.6 and Tanaka is the No.8,” Smyth revealed on the Inside Elland Road (h/t MOT Leeds News).
“I almost think this is the time to bring Tanaka in anyway. I know Farke is very patient and bides his time – we saw it with Gruev last season – but Cardiff are a team who are struggling.
“They’re trying to play out from the back, they’re not parking the bus. They’re conceding goals for fun and have scored one goal. You don’t need two No.6’s in this game and if Tanaka gives you a little bit extra going forward.
“From watching bits and bobs, he’s obviously a pest who can win the ball out of possession, but it’s what he can do with the ball that is different to Gruev and I wonder if this is an ideal opportunity to stick him in.”
Tanaka spent the last four years playing for the German side Fortuna Düsseldorf, making 95 appearances while also scoring 10 goals and registering eight assists. If the midfielder does get the start, it’s an opportunity to force his way into the starting 11.
If Tanaka sides against Cardiff City, it won’t come as a surprise that many call for him to be a regular starter.
