Daniel Farke to make Ao Tanaka decision for Leeds United v Cardiff City – Graham Smyth

Graham Smyth believes Ao Tanaka is in line for his first Leeds United start against Cardiff City on Saturday.

The 26-year-old has had to settle for two cameos off the bench against Hull City and Burnley since his move to Elland Road from Fortuna Dusseldorf on deadline day.

Joe Rodon is a doubt for the match on Saturday after his injury concerns reached the media [Yorkshire Evening Post] in the aftermath of the 1-0 defeat to Burnley, and Smyth revealed on the Inside Elland Road podcast [19 September] that the Welshman’s potential absence opens up an opportunity for Tanaka.

He said: “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.”

“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.”

Ao Tanaka set for full Leeds United debut

The acquisition of Tanaka came at the last possible moment for Leeds but it was a much-needed addition to improve the midfield options for the Whites.

Ilia Gruev and Ethan Ampadu have endured mixed success as a partnership at the start of the season, with only two wins out of the opening five fixtures, Daniel Farke has already lost ground in the race for automatic promotion.