Middlesbrough player's comments about two Leeds United stars speak volumes

Middlesbrough star Tommy Smith has heaped praise on Leeds United's midfield duo Joe Rothwell and Ao Takaka. Rothwell, who arrived on loan from Bournemouth in the summer, and Tanaka, a deadline day arrival from Fortuna Dusseldorf, have formed a solid partnership in the middle of the park in recent weeks.

In fact, Daniel Farke has started Rothwell and Tanaka together in Leeds' last 13 Championship matches. Farke decided to start Rothwell and Tanaka in a midfield two after Ethan Ampadu suffered a knee injury against Coventry and that partnership has continued up to Tuesday's clash with Boro at Elland Road.

Speaking ahead of the game, Smith, who hasn't played since a serious ankle injury in October 2023, picked out Rothwell and Tanaka as two of Leeds' standout players so far this season. "It has been a big part of what Leeds have done this season, the two midfielders (Rothwell and Tanaka)," Smith told Sky Sports.

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"I have watched them closely and they do bounce off each other very well. Defensively and from an attacking sense as well, so our lads have got to be on their game tonight with them two especially.

"Similar to the boys that are playing for Middlesbrough with Dan [Barlaser] and Hayden [Hackney], they're going to be the two that are going to dictate the game for Leeds."

Victory over Boro would ensure back-to-back wins for the Whites following that disappointing defeat at Blackburn last month. They could also end the evening top of the Championship with three points against Boro, although a draw will be enough if Burnley fail to beat Derby.

"We are aware that Middlesbrough are one of the best teams individually," Farke said in his pre-match press conference "They have a lot of quality with many, many options especially in the offensive positions.

"Attacking wise, it's one of the best sides you can face in this league and it's important our defensive players are spot on and compact. The more we gain possession, the more we can control the game and bring our offensive players into positions.

"In general, their approach is to always attack games and score many goals. That's what they have showed in many games in recent weeks when they have scored many goals."