Good Morning. It's Friday 31st October, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road Tanaka set to be axed for Seagulls encounter Leeds United boss Daniel Farke faces a delicate selection dilemma ahead of Saturday’s Premier League showdown against Brighton at the Amex Stadium. With a fully fit squad at his disposal for the first time in months, the German manager must now make some tough choices that could stir emotions among the Elland Road faithful. Central to the debate is whether Ao Tanaka, who recently returned to the starting lineup following a lengthy knee injury, will retain his place in midfield or make way for Anton Stach. Many supporters see Tanaka as a symbol of commitment and humility, especially after he openly admitted that he is still adapting to the demands of top-flight football while striving to raise his own standards. Farke has praised Tanaka’s self-awareness, calling it the mark of a player determined to improve. The Leeds manager remains pleased with the Japanese midfielder’s solid display against West Ham, though he acknowledged it was natural for the player to tire after an hour of action. With Stach pushing hard for a recall following his rib injury, the gaffer may be tempted to freshen up his midfield against a Brighton side known for their relentless pressing and technical precision. “I like when someone is humble, self-critical and puts his demands really high. “No reason to be too self-critical. Ao was fantastic for us, of course, it’s the first time in his career he has played in a top league, so a point to prove there. Had a fantastic pre-season, also a fantastic start in the Everton game, for example. “Sadly, an injury and no one is to blame, especially not him. Out for a few weeks, it’s not like the first game back, where you play the opponent out of the park. “Definitely a solid performance against West Ham. Didn’t expect him to be Man of the Match, but I think he was quite solid and played his part to dominate the game. A bit tired after 60 minutes, but that’s normal.” please log in to view this image Championship duo on Leeds radar With the January transfer window fast approaching, Leeds United’s recruitment team are already busy identifying attacking reinforcements to bolster Daniel Farke’s survival operation. While the Whites have shown plenty of flair and energy in the top flight this season, the forward line remains an area of concern. Leeds are showing interest in two familiar Championship faces; both of whom happen to be American internationals. No surprises that the first name on their list is Josh Sargent, a player who has long been admired by Farke. The Norwich City front man, enjoyed a blistering start to the season, hitting five goals in his opening four matches before a barren spell coincided with the Canaries’ slide down the table. Norwich currently find themselves deep in trouble after just twelve games, which could very well unsettle the 25yo. His versatility across the front line, combined with his relentless work rate and technical ability, make him an attractive option for Leeds. However, with the forward tied to Carrow Road until the summer of 2028, any deal would likely require a significant outlay, monies Leeds may find difficult to find without the prospect of selling first! The second target, Coventry City’s Haji Wright, is also enjoying a superb run of form. The 27-year-old striker has found the net eight times in just eleven Championship appearances this season, spearheading Frank Lampard’s side to the top of the Championship. Wright’s athleticism, composure in front of goal, and growing reputation have marked him out as one of the division’s standout forwards. Yet, prising him away mid-season will be difficult, with Coventry understandably reluctant to part with one of their key players during a promotion bid. For Leeds, both Sargent and Wright fit the profile of forwards who could add dynamism and depth to Farke’s attacking options. Whether the club can turn admiration into acquisition remains to be seen, but the groundwork for a busy January is clearly already underway. please log in to view this image
For me Stach is one of the best summer buys and yes he was not great in his last game but he was injured and why Farke played his beyond me? Tanaka has to the first off the bench to replace Stach, Longstaffe or Ampadu. The next question is on Gruev will he be sold or will the club sell Tanaka?
Stach should be starting away games against good sides as we need to be more solid and Stach gives us that more than Tanaka does. I think we need to be keeping both Tanaka and Gruev unless we bring in more midfielders due to us playing 3 in the middle. You’re one injury away from not being able to freshen things up in a second half and two injuries away from having to play someone out of position.
Sargent is one of those players you don’t really want to play against but don’t want the club to sign. Annoying type of player. Wright, I don’t think there is a chance Coventry would sell him in January. Remember, last time they were in and around the Play Offs, they kept hold of Gyokeres, Hamer and O’Hare until their season was over without promotion. Morning all
For the record, I wanted to go for Wright when they signed Sims permanently. We could have got him cheap at the time.
Morning all Is Sergant or Wright better than Piroe? This is the thing I can't see why we would get players in if they aren't as good as what we already have.
Agree with all the above. There's a suck it and see argument but i like Tanaka as a bench option. He can up the passing tempo if we're chasing a game, when the game has slowed down a bit, Gruev off the bench helps us if we're in protection mode. Both are able deputies for injuries/suspensions but if we're playing 3 midfielders we are arguably still a little light there.
good question. Not sure it’s about best per se, it’s about best for the situation. In this league, with where we are at, we start with the guys who can best compete physically. When the game slows later on, we sub on those most likely to help us chase the game or close it out depending on match situation.
