(Credit: Imago)
MOT Leeds News speaking to Paul Robinson
Tue 25 March 2025 16:40, UK
Ao Tanaka has been one of the most influential players for Leeds United this season as the Whites continue their search for promotion back to the Premier League.
With less than a week to go until the Whites are back in action, Leeds remain in the driving seat to achieve promotion from the Championship.
When it comes to players who have influence that push, very few have impressed as much as Tanaka, with his ability in midfield playing a crucial role throughout the campaign.
However, the Japanese international could be faced with a difficult scenario in the summer if the Whites pursue one specific signing.
Tanaka has been in excellent form all season (Credit: Imago)
Kalvin Phillips ready for Leeds return
Leeds have been linked with a move for Kalvin Phillips since the winter window, and if promotion is achieved, there may be a high likelihood that a deal can be sealed at Elland Road.
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However, when asked by MOT Leeds News what his signing could mean for Tanaka, Paul Robinson claimed that it would be a good thing overall.
He said: “I think it’s a squad game now more than anything. And I think, you know, you look at Kalvin Phillips’ injury record at times, he doesn’t miss many games.
“You look at the injuries that they’ve had in midfield this season, Tanaka’s obviously been injured. Joe Rothwell’s been injured. Ilia Gruev missing for a huge part. Ethan Ampadu’s now out injured. The rotation that he’s had to have in there, when you’re in the Premier League, you need a bigger squad.
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Kalvin Phillips 234 14 13
Phillips has played the majority of his career with Leeds
“You need a stronger squad. Finances are different. That squad could take Kalvin Phillips in now. And that’s the type of thing that you need to do. You need to bring in better players than you’ve got, competition for places, regardless of who fits in the manager’s system.
“I think even with Tanaka, Rothwell, Gruev, Ampadu, you know, those types of players, I still think that there’s space in that Leeds squad for Kalvin Phillips.”
Former Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips on loan at Ipswich Town
Phillips would be a good addition for Leeds (Credit: Imago)
Leeds will need Phillips-esque signings this summer
If promotion is achieved, Leeds will have plenty of work to do to ensure that their squad is in a good position to avoid falling straight back down into the Championship.
Experience in situations like that is crucial, and Phillips would provide that in abundance, while also knowing the ins and outs of the club.
Focus for now will be on the final eight games of the season, with promotion far from achieved yet.
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