Several players who played key roles in Leeds United’s Championship-winning campaign last season have struggled for minutes since the club returned to the Premier League.
Even though Joel Piroe finished as Leads’ leading scorer last season, the striker has found himself on the fringes this term and is still searching for his first goal in the top flight. Daniel James has also had limited involvement for United so far, although injuries have played a bigger role in his absence than his performances on the pitch.
Another player whose lack of minutes has sparked plenty of debate among supporters is Ao Tanaka. The Japanese midfielder’s situation has been a talking point throughout the season, but recent transfer developments could bring some relief to the fanbase.
Leeds have no intention of selling Tanaka
Tanaka, 27, was outstanding in midfield for Leeds last season and played a major part in their promotion, quickly becoming a fan favorite in West Yorkshire.
His first campaign in the Premier League has been more challenging, however. Out of his 20 league appearances so far, only seven have come as starts.
Despite that reduced role, a report from Football Insider claims Leeds are not planning to sell the midfielder this summer. The club reportedly have “no plans to let him leave” and still believe he can work his way back into the starting lineup.
That update should reassure Leeds supporters who had begun to question Tanaka’s future after he was left on the bench for the club’s last six league matches.
Tanaka hasn’t played in the Premier League since a quick 24-minute cameo against Everton FC in January, when he was criticized for his part in Everton’s equalizer. His most recent appearance was in the FA Cup match against Birmingham City.
The midfield player may soon get another opportunity to show everyone why he was crucial to Leads’ promotion campaign, as Norwich City is scheduled to visit Elland Road on Sunday.
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