Daniel Farke had just finished his press conference on Thursday afternoon ahead of Leeds United’s clash against Fulham, when Ao Tanaka posted a message to fans on Instagram.
One of the stars of last season, Japan international Ao Tanaka is a fan favourite at Elland Road. Tanaka started and sparkled in the win over Everton on the final day, but struggled in the 5-0 loss to Arsenal.
Not that anyone actually played well, at Arsenal. But it proved doubly worse for Tanaka, who picked up a knee injury against The Gunners. The exact same MCL injury that Ethan Ampadu suffered against Everton.
Ampadu was expected to return after the international break ahead of the trip to Fulham, while Tanaka was believed to be a bit later. But Farke said that Tanaka had been in training from the start of the week.
Ao Tanaka in action for Leeds against Everton.
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Ao Tanaka posts on Instagram just after Daniel Farke comments
Farke confirmed Leeds would take a late decision on Tanaka, as well as Ampadu and it could be a matter of including both players in the squad, but perhaps not starting them. Joel Piroe and Lukas Nmecha, too.
But immediately after Farke’s comments in his press conference, Tanaka took to Instagram. Earlier this week, the midfielder turned 27 and told fans “see you soon” in a hint about a potential return at Fulham.
How Daniel Farke will start against Fulham with five possibly out
Karl Darlow is set to come in for Lucas Perri, with Farke confirming Perri is missing for the next two games. The defence is likely to remain the same, unless Farke decides to bring in summer signing Jaka Bijol.
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The midfield depends on Tanaka and Ampadu’s availability but if skipper Ampadu is only 80% fit, he still has to start given the drop off in quality when compared to his direct replacement, Ilia Gruev.
Daniel Farke during Leeds' clash against Newcastle.
Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images
Sean Longstaff and Anton Stach starred against Newcastle and they will remain if Tanaka is not fully fit, and might even do so, even if Tanaka is ready. The big question mark is who Farke starts in attack.
Dan James has struggled, Noah Okafor is ready and Willy Gnonto admits his form has not been as good as he expected. Lukas Nmecha and Joel Piroe are doubts. Dominic Calvert-Lewin may get his first start.