Daniel Farke faces a tough challenge in Leeds United’s quest for automatic promotion to the Premier League, as he cannot afford any more long-term injuries. The manager is already dealing with absences from key players like Ethan Ampadu, Ilia Gruev, and Largie Ramazani, while Patrick Bamford has struggled to secure regular playing time due to injury. Although Ampadu is reportedly ahead of schedule in his recovery, it’s unlikely that he’ll be ready for a full return until the new year, leaving Farke with limited options as the season progresses.

Leeds United have been proactive in bolstering their midfield, bringing in free agent Josuha Guilavogui to join Joe Rothwell and Ao Tanaka. With the international break on the horizon, Daniel Farke faces two weeks of anxiety, as all eyes will be on Tanaka, the Japanese international, to ensure he returns from international duty unscathed. Farke will be hoping that his key midfielder avoids injury, as Tanaka’s presence is crucial to Leeds’ push for promotion.

Leeds United are growing increasingly concerned over Ao Tanaka’s upcoming international call-up. The 26-year-old, who has earned 29 caps for Japan, is expected to feature at some point during the two-week break, leaving Daniel Farke anxious about the potential for injury. Given Tanaka’s importance to Leeds’ midfield, any setback could be a major blow to their promotion hopes.

Any injury to Ao Tanaka could be a devastating blow for Leeds United, despite the solid debut of 34-year-old Josuha Guilavogui against Plymouth Argyle. Tanaka has been a standout performer this season, boasting an impressive 91% passing accuracy in the league, 11 interceptions, and seven created chances. His best performance came in the 2-1 victory over Watford on 22 October, where he completed 93% of his passes, created a chance, made 11 recoveries, and won 78% of his ground duels. His form has been crucial to Leeds’ midfield, making him irreplaceable in the push for promotion.

Ao Tanaka has been exceptional for Leeds United, ranking in the top 83rd percentile for non-penalty goals and the top 69th percentile for assists, highlighting untapped potential in his game. With such impressive statistics, there are still aspects of Tanaka’s skill set that fans have yet to fully witness. As Leeds continue their push for promotion, Daniel Farke will be monitoring the midfielder closely, especially with the club already stretched by injuries. At this stage of the season, Leeds simply cannot afford to lose any more key players to the treatment table.