Elland Road hero left stunned after what “technically gifted” Leeds United ace did against West Ham – The Leeds Press

Ao Tanaka has found gametime hard to come by this season. (Credit: Imago)

Daniel Farke continued to trust his Leeds United players in the FA Cup tie this weekend. In the cup competitions, he has opted for players who have not played much in the Premier League this season.

The likes of Lucas Perri and Ao Tanaka have really gotten to show off their ability in the last few games in the cup competition. Leeds United fielded a stronger side against West Ham this time around. And it almost worked to perfection as they took the lead in the first half. The away side managed to hold on and even added a second in the second half. Many thought the match was over, but the Hammers pulled out two goals in three minutes to send the game to extra time.

Jermaine Beckford stunned after Leeds United star’s display against West Ham

Leeds United eventually won the tie in the penalty shootout, with Lucas Perri being the hero. But what went under the radar was Ao Tanaka’s performance. He was brilliant in the middle of the park and topped off the performance with a goal. Jermaine Beckford, who was covering the game, praised the Japanese international for the goal.

“He’s one of those players who is just technically gifted, he’s so effortless when he’s on the ball and in possession, what a turn this is, oh, wow, absolutely fantastic, great feet! The shot took a deflection off Disasi to take it past Areola, but it was a great finish and nothing short of what Leeds United deserved at that point.”

READ MORE: Alan Shearer and Micah Richards brutally dismiss Leeds United ahead of FA Cup semi-final clash vs Chelsea

It is a shame how Ao Tanaka has not played more this season

Ao Tanaka was the star in the Leeds United midfield last season, even winning the Players’ Player of the Year award. The Japanese international was sensational in the Championship, where he outplayed almost everyone he faced. But for some reason, he lost his place in the team early in the season, with many reports claiming that Daniel Farke preferred the physicality Sean Longstaff and Anton Stach brought. Tanaka has not had a run of games to show what he is capable of in the league and that has been shocking. Hopefully his performances in the FA Cup could convince Farke to give him more minutes as the end of the season approaches.