Ross McCormack delivers five-word verdict as Leeds United post announcement on Tuesday

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October saw Leeds United go unbeaten in five Championship games, winning twice and drawing three in the midst of an injury crisis, Illan Meslier’s mistake and arguably the toughest run of the season.

Victories came against promotion rival Sheffield United, narrowly overcoming Tom Cleverley’s Watford that gave Leeds a real run for their money at Elland Road. Ultimately though, another three Leeds points.

There were draws during tough games against Norwich, Bristol City and Sunderland away. The 2-2 draw at the Stadium of Light saw Illan Meslier inexplicably throw the ball in the net, ruining a 2-1 win late on.

It came amid a month of injury concerns. Ilia Gruev’s knee issue that required an operation came a few days after Ethan Ampadu limped off against Coventry – forcing Daniel Farke to sign Josuha Guilavogui.

• READ MORE: Leeds player has declared himself as “underrated” by supporters

Ao Tanaka wins Leeds’ October Player of the Month award

It also saw Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell come into the side. Tanaka replaced Ampadu at Coventry and then started against Norwich while Rothwell replaced Gruev, during the 1-1 draw at Carrow Road.

Tanaka, 26, has been immense for Leeds. So much so, that he won 54% of Leeds fans’ vote for the Player of the Month award, and Leeds confirmed as much with a post on their Instagram on Tuesday evening.

Ross McCormack reacts to Ao Tanaka’s Player of the Month award

Tanaka had to wait for his first start but since coming into the side, he has not looked back. A player that Daniel Farke admitted he tried to sign a year earlier, even if Tanaka is playing in a slightly different role.

Leeds will be delighted with Tanaka’s start to life, instantly becoming a fan favourite and those of a Leeds persuasion will be watching Tanaka represent Japan nervously, hoping the midfielder remains injury free.

Tanaka is in action for his country against Indonesia on Friday at midday, before taking to the pitch again next Tuesday when Japan face China. Ross McCormack has certainly been impressed, replying to the post.

What does benefit Leeds this time around, is that The Whites play on Sunday against Swansea after the break – allowing those who are travelling far to recover, like Junior Firpo, Brenden Aaronson and Tanaka.