“Journalist urges Leeds to ‘wrap duo in cotton wool’ after Ampadu injury update”
"Graham Smyth urges Leeds United to protect Ao Tanaka and Ilia Gruev following latest injury update at Elland Road"
In a press conference on Monday, September 30, Daniel Farke confirmed that Ethan Ampadu would face an extended period on the sidelines due to a knee injury sustained during the victory over Coventry.
Despite Leeds United’s depth in midfield, a journalist from the Yorkshire Evening Post urged caution regarding the use of Tanaka and Gruev during Ampadu’s absence.
Writing on X the same day, the journalist noted: “No one wanted Tanaka to make his debut under these circumstances, but he and Gruev still form a strong midfield partnership. An international midfield.
Just need to keep them both fit. Wrap them and the centre-backs in cotton wool.”
Leeds United now faces a challenge with Ampadu’s injury.
The club entered the season with a relatively small first-team squad, a strategy that has worked for Farke so far.
However, the depth and quality of the team will be truly tested in Ampadu’s absence.
Ampadu, a key player for Leeds, has been vital since joining Elland Road last summer.
The Wales international has excelled in both midfield and defense, playing a crucial role in Leeds’ success.
Fortunately, the arrival of Tanaka provides Farke with some additional options in midfield.
Yet, beyond Tanaka and his partner Gruev, Leeds’ alternatives in the midfield are limited.
The hope now is that neither of the new midfield duo will sustain injuries before Ampadu’s return early next year.
If either were to join Ampadu on the injury list, it could significantly hinder Leeds’ prospects of securing promotion to the Premier League this season.
