Ao Tanaka
Leeds UnitedCM
Box-to-Box
Sep 10, 1998 (27)
Right
5'11"
165 lb
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Fires off one shot
Tanaka recorded one shot and four tackles won in Saturday's 4-0 win over Tunisia.
Analysis: Tanaka was in the starting XI Saturday after a bench role and going unused in their opener, playing the full 90 against Tunisia. He would see most of his work in the defense as his singular shot and four tackles won were the highlights of his day. He would complete 72 passes, second-best on the team Saturday.
Quality in engine room
Tanaka has been named in Japan's World Cup squad and is expected to be an important midfield presence for Japan throughout the competition.
Analysis: Tanaka made 33 appearances for Leeds United across all competitions this season, contributing four goals in what was a strong campaign for the Japanese midfielder who helped Leeds United secure their spot in the Premier League. Tanaka brings technical quality, pressing intelligence and the ability to contribute in both directions from midfield that makes him a versatile and trusted option for manager Moriyasu. Tanaka heads into the World Cup in strong form and full confidence after a productive season in English football that has him primed for his best tournament performance to date.
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