Ao Tanaka, Leeds’ BEST Summer Signing? – Former Leeds Manager Gives a Detailed ANALYSIS on Tanaka’s Performance Against Coventry and He Has Nothing But ACCOLADES for Tanaka….Is the Stats Correct?

Neil Redfearn Shares His Thoughts on Ao Tanaka’s Display for Leeds United

Leeds United’s new signing, Ao Tanaka, made a significant impact in Saturday’s 3-0 win over Coventry City. The Japanese midfielder replaced the injured Ethan Ampadu and played a crucial role in the team’s third goal.

Tanaka’s performance was analyzed by former Leeds manager Neil Redfearn, who shared his thoughts on the £3.4m signing. Redfearn praised Tanaka’s vision, creativity, and range of passing.

“He grew into the game, if I’m honest,” Redfearn said. “The ball for Piroe’s goal, the ball he played into Gnonto – a 40-yard pass curling into Gnonto. He showed moments where the ball came into him and it was quite combative.”

Redfearn highlighted Tanaka’s ability to rotate possession in midfield and express himself once the game was won. Tanaka’s stats from the match were impressive:

• 93.8% passing success rate (second best behind Sam Byram, who played nine minutes)
• 30/32 passes completed
• Key pass to Gnonto for third goal
• Two tackles
• Two interceptions

The hype surrounding Tanaka is significant, and his pass for Piroe’s goal showcased his vision and creativity. Tanaka even scored the winner for Japan at the 2022 World Cup against Spain.

Leeds manager Daniel Farke will have a decision to make regarding Tanaka’s starting spot against Norwich on Tuesday. With Ampadu likely to be missing, Farke may opt to start Tanaka or bring in a more experienced Championship midfielder like Joe Rothwell.

Daniel Farke Praises Mateo Joseph

Leeds United manager Daniel Farke has praised Mateo Joseph’s work rate and link play despite the striker scoring only one goal this season. Farke emphasized Joseph’s contribution to the team goes beyond his goal tally.

“I’m happy with Mateo and what he is delivering,” Farke said. “Obviously, as a striker, and I was a striker myself, you’re only happy if you’re scoring game after game. That’s quite normal, but I don’t rate him just by his goals.”

Farke highlighted Joseph’s excellent work rate, ability to hold up the ball, and link play. He also noted Joseph’s greed to score and create opportunities.

“I have to remind him he’s still young and it’s his first season where he’s starting games,” Farke said. “It’s not an easy shirt. If he had scored eight or nine goals, I would be worried about January. I can only praise Mateo.”

Joseph’s stats this season demonstrate his value to the team:

• 9/18 shots on target
• 6/10 attempted tackles
• 5/12 dribbles successful
• One goal, three assists

Farke’s praise and Joseph’s performances suggest he may retain his starting spot against Norwich, despite Joel Piroe’s impressive cameo against Coventry.

The Leeds United squad faces a challenging test against Norwich on Tuesday, with several key players ruled out through injury. Farke will need to make key decisions regarding his starting lineup to ensure the team’s momentum continues.