Leeds United secured an eighth Championship win of the season on Saturday afternoon even if Daniel Farke’s side were not at their brilliant best against struggling Queens Park Rangers.
An untidy finish from Jayden Bogle gave Leeds the lead before Joel Piroe came on to score a second in injury time. Leeds should have scored more, but in truth, they were never in danger of dropping points.
The Whites bounced back after defeat to Millwall in the week and it was good timing, ahead of the break. Leeds go into November’s pause in second place, if Sheffield United fail to beat Sheffield Wednesday.
Ethan Ampadu and Largie Ramazani were watching on from the stands and were impressed, with the injured duo posting on Instagram. But Leeds were not the polished article and more will be required.
Ao Tanaka posts on Instagram following Leeds win against QPR
The Japan star has been immense since coming into the side, starting eight games in a row since both Ampadu and Ilia Gruev picked up injuries. Numerous man of the match awards, dictating the tempo.
He was his brilliant self again on Saturday, keeping things ticking even after a mistake in the first half. Tanaka had a message for fans on social media after a ninth clean sheet of the Championship season.
With Leeds gunning for promotion, Tanaka told Leeds fans what they need to start doing when away from Elland Road: “Always win at home. Let’s get three points away.”
Ao Tanaka’s stats for Leeds United during 2-0 win against QPR
The change in midfield dynamic is clear to see. Last season, Leeds played Glen Kamara alongside Gruev or Ampadu and it was very defensive. This season, there is more impetus to attack from the two midfielders.
Ao Tanaka’s stats for Leeds in win against QPR:
- 7.5 FotMob rating (Leeds’ third-highest behind Bogle and Pascal Struijk)
- 80 successful passes, 86 attempted passes
- Two chances created, eight passes into final third
- Five defensive actions, two interceptions, four recoveries
Tanaka has already surpassed Kamara in shots taken, while Rothwell’s forward darts and set-piece ability is clear to see. That is, if Rothwell admits Leeds have lost some defensive nous in the middle of the park.
Unfortunately, it is now a fortnight until Leeds go into their 16th game of the Championship campaign. The international break comes first, before Leeds go to Wales to take on Swansea, and then to Luton.
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