Daniel Farke’s goal throughout the holiday season is to keep his Leeds United team members healthy and productive. On Boxing Day, he made the controversial choice to bench Ao Tanaka at Stoke City.

After a demanding schedule, Farke wanted to give Tanaka a break and was certain that his squad needed the physicality and grit of Ethan Ampadu in the midfield engine room. Some fans questioned Farke’s choice.

In the middle of the park, however, Ampadu and Joe Rothwell gave a confident performance. In a lopsided match, the Potters had three attempts at goal against the visitors’ 20 and more than 76% of the possession.

Stuart Dallas, a former United player, said, “Taking Tanaka out was a huge call.” He has been their finest player this season, in my opinion. Although it was a huge decision, it was worthwhile. It is a huge headache to have, but I have no idea what he will do in midfield.

When United plays Derby County at Pride Park Stadium tomorrow night, they will be back in action. What Farke does in midfield will be intriguing to see.

At this point in the season, Farke’s team is three points ahead of where they were at this point the previous year. Dallas stated: “The Leeds supporters will not accept anything less than promotion this season, and they [the team] know they have the best team in the league.” They are headed in the right direction, and that is the ultimate goal.

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