Leeds United is making waves in the Championship this season, primarily due to their commanding presence in the midfield. As they sit atop the table, one standout statistic underscores their control: they lead the league in “touches in midfield,” boasting a staggering 500 more touches than second-placed Burnley. This dominance has been a key factor in their ability to dictate the flow of games and maintain consistent performances.
For much of the campaign, the partnership of Ethan Ampadu and Illia Gruev has epitomized Leeds’ midfield strength. However, injuries sidelining both players early in matches have not derailed the team’s momentum. Instead, the emergence of squad players Joe Rothwell and Ao Tanaka has proven invaluable. Their seamless transition into starting roles reflects the depth and versatility of Daniel Farke’s squad.
The new midfield duo first partnered during Leeds’ away clash against Norwich City on October 1st. Despite facing a challenging schedule that included four matches against teams in the top 10, Rothwell and Tanaka have held their own. They’ve managed to secure two wins and three draws in this stretch, demonstrating resilience particularly in tough away fixtures against Norwich, Bristol City, and Sunderland—teams that have been formidable at home.
Tanaka, in particular, has been a revelation. After enduring a taxing 18,000-mile journey during the international break, he returned just in time for a crucial derby against Sheffield United. Remarkably, he was awarded the man of the match for his performance, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. Just days later, he repeated this feat in a standout display against Watford, earning praise from fans and pundits alike.
His teammates have humorously dubbed him “Tiger Tanaka,” likening him to a James Bond villain. However, manager Daniel Farke took a different approach in his post-match comments following the Watford game, describing Tanaka as “James Bond,” for his crucial contributions on the pitch. “He saved the world today,” Farke noted, highlighting Tanaka’s ability to win vital duels and provide steel in midfield. This kind of performance has been instrumental in keeping Leeds at the summit of the Championship.
Rothwell’s contributions should not be overlooked either. His ability to link play and provide creative outlets complements Tanaka’s robust style, creating a balanced midfield dynamic. As the winter months approach, maintaining this form will be crucial for Leeds. The squad depth is now more important than ever, especially with the recent signing of free agent Josuha Guilavogui, which underscores the need for cover in the event of further injuries.
As Leeds United continue their campaign, the performances of Rothwell and Tanaka will be pivotal in their quest for promotion. Their ability to control the midfield and adapt under pressure exemplifies the team’s resilience, positioning Leeds as serious contenders in the Championship this season. The road ahead remains challenging, but with their current midfield dominance, the Whites are well-equipped to tackle whatever comes next.
