Roy keane believes Daniel Farke has found the perfect solution to his problem in one player, he’s so special

Roy Keane believes Daniel Farke has found the perfect solution to his midfield problem in one player:

Ao Tanaka,The Japanese international delivered another outstanding performance as Leeds United cruised to a 3-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Elland Road on Saturday. This followed his impressive showing in last week’s historic 2-1 win at Old Trafford, where this Leeds side became the first side in over four decades to triumph there in the league.

Keane, never one to mince words, has been vocal in his praise. During Sky Sports coverage of the Manchester United clash, the former Manchester United captain highlighted how Tanaka, alongside Ethan Ampadu, completely outclassed United’s midfield duo of Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte. Keane described United’s engine room as “non-existent” while lauding the balance and intensity Tanaka brought to Farke’s setup.

Tanaka’s displays have been transformative. At Old Trafford, he bossed the midfield with composure on the ball, sharp tackling, and intelligent positioning that helped Leeds press high and disrupt United’s rhythm. He earned high ratings for his all-action display, contributing to a result that lifted the pressure on Farke after a challenging season.

Against Wolves, the 27-year-old once again shone. Operating in a central role, Tanaka dictated tempo, won duels, and provided the defensive shield that allowed Leeds’ attackers to flourish. Noah Okafor and Justin scoring early on, but it was Tanaka’s control that prevented any Wolves comeback. Farke himself has expressed delight with Tanaka’s recent form, noting the midfielder needed time to adapt to the Premier League’s intensity in his first top-flight season but is now delivering consistently.

For Keane, this is no coincidence. He sees Tanaka as the “special” player who brings exactly what a combative, high-pressing side needs: energy, technical quality, and reliability. The Ireland legend, who values midfielders who “do a bit of everything,” views Farke’s decision to integrate Tanaka more prominently as a masterstroke.

Leeds’ midfield issues earlier in the campaign—lacking bite and control—appear resolved. Tanaka’s ability to break up play, progress the ball, and maintain standards has given the team balance. With relegation worries easing after back-to-back strong results, Farke’s tactical tweaks, centered around the Japanese star, are paying dividends.

Fans and pundits alike are buzzing. Tanaka isn’t just a squad player anymore; he’s becoming the heartbeat of Leeds’ survival push. As Keane put it in spirit through his analysis, this is the kind of no-nonsense performer who makes a difference when it matters.In a season of ups and downs, Ao Tanaka is proving special indeed.