Leeds United are edging closer to avoiding relegation as they are currently nine points clear of 18th-placed Tottenham Hotspur. Given their recent form, they have taken chances in a clinical way and ensured there’s daylight between themselves and the bottom three.
One of the good performers during this recent run of games has been Ao Tanaka, who has benefited from Anton Stach’s ankle injury. The Japanese international has been in the news of late following reports suggesting he could push for an exit following a lack of game time this season.
From being arguably one of the best midfielders in the Championship last season, Daniel Farke has not been using the Leeds United fan favourite regularly in the Premier League. This has led to suggestions he could leave, with a host of clubs already showing big interest in the 27-year-old Japanese international.
There have been suggestions of a surprise interest from Manchester United, which, in truth, will turn the heads of any player in world football, let alone Tanaka. Should the interest turn into a concrete approach, there’s a chance the Leeds United star could leave the club.
Former Leeds United skipper and fan favourite Dominic Matteo has warned Tanaka against making a hasty decision on his future. His comments on Team Talk spoke about why he thinks Farke has not chosen to start Tanaka often, while warning the midfielder of a move away from the club.
On Tanaka’s current situation, Matteo said, “The manager’s got to pick a team to win games, and there’s competition in that area. Tanaka has had injuries, but he also hasn’t been as consistent as he was in the Championship.”
“He was one of the best players in the Championship last season. So it’s injuries, a little bit of inconsistency, and not getting picked in certain games. Maybe he thinks he should be playing, but when other people are doing such a good job, you’ve got to fight to get back in the team.”
When talking about a move away from Leeds United, this is what Matteo said: “Where’s Tanaka going to go? He’ll have options, but you have to be careful what you wish for sometimes. He’s a good player, with time on his side still, and he’s an international, but Leeds have improved him as a player. The coaches have obviously done something right with him. And when he has been at his best and when he has been fit, he’s been picked.”
“I’d like to see him stay; he’s a bit of a fan favourite.”
Tanaka has been sporadic in his appearances but bright when called upon, which may be why some teams are showing interest in the midfielder. He could be a solid addition for the likes of Manchester United, but there are no guarantees he will assume a key role.
There have been suggestions that he could stay at Leeds United beyond the summer; however, that may depend on how well he performs between now and the end of the campaign. For now, Tanaka will focus on helping Leeds United finish the season on a high, including the possibility of reaching the FA Cup final.
