Ao Tanaka was a surprise inclusion in Japan’s starting line-up for their second World Cup outing in the early hours of Sunday morning, and the Leeds United star helped his side beat Tunisia 4-0.
After an indifferent first season in the Premier League, Tanaka retained his place in the World Cup squad ahead of this summer’s tournament. But against the Netherlands, Tanaka remained an unused substitute.
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Japan secured a late point against Crysencio Summerville’s side, with the former Leeds winger scoring in the 2-2 draw. Summerville also scored for his country on Saturday against Gabi Gudmundsson’s Sweden.
Meanwhile, Tanaka was handed a surprise start in the middle of the park on Sunday alongside Mainz’s Kaishu Sano. Japan would go on to secure a 4-0 win, pretty much securing a place in the round of 32.
What Japanese media said about Leeds star Ao Tanaka
Leeds target Ayase Ueda scored two of Japan’s four goals after drawing a blank in his country’s first game, while Daichi Kamada and Junya Ito also got their names on the score sheet for Japan.
But Tanaka was excellent in behind the strikers, often setting the tempo and feeding his attacking teammates who put Tunisia to the sword after the African nation swapped managers during the week.
Japanese outlet Football Channel delivered their player ratings immediately after the game and Tanaka, who lasted the entire 90 minutes, earned praise. His rating of 7.5 was amongst Japan’s best players.
“He made his presence felt on both offence and defence. His high-quality off-the-ball movements contributed to the team,” the Japanese site reported, after watching Tanaka shine in central midfield.
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While Tanaka will be delighted with his performance as he drifts off to sleep across the pond, his long-term future at Elland Road remains a doubt. Tanaka only started 14 Premier League games last season.
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The player himself has admitted his frustration at failing to play regularly in the Premier League, and even considered an exit in January with concerns over his World Cup place. But he needn’t have worried.
Tanaka’s future at Leeds does remain a doubt however, with reports suggesting German clubs are keeping tabs on the £8m-rated Leeds ace. However, if the 49ers do sell, it should be for a lot more than £8m.
If Leeds do strengthen their midfield, then Tanaka could end up leaving Elland Road. It means any good performances this summer will only serve as a shop window, ahead of what could be a busy summer.
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