EAST ASIAN SPARKLERS

SAM SHEPPEY EXPLAINS WHY FOOTBALL LEAGUE CLUBS ARE INCREASINGLY HONING IN ON PLAYERS FROM JAPAN AND SOUTH KOREA...

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THERE are a growing number of East Asian talents in English football, particularly in the EFL.

It is a market that clubs are tapping into more and more - the amount of Japanese and South Korean players featuring in the Championship and League One in the past season was into double figures.

A combination of quality players at realistic prices makes it an enticing option. Here are a handful who shone in 2024-25...

AO TANAKA

Signed by Leeds United from Bundesliga second tier side Fortuna Dusseldorf for £2.9m on a four-year deal last August, Ao Tanaka has been a regular starter for the Whites.

Playing as a holding midfielder, the 26-year-old Japan international has been a consistent figure in the starting XI and has given Leeds composure and control in a key area of the pitch.

His late goal in the 3-1 win at Sheffield United in February was a crucial moment in the Championship promotion race, but, more than anything, his ability on the ball allowed Leeds to average more possession than any other team in the second tier. Tanaka’s market value has shot up during his time at Elland Road and will only continue to grow if he performs to the levels we have already seen in the Premier League.

YU HIRAKAWA