Credit: Imago

Declan Carr

Sun 5 April 2026 17:21, UK

West Ham sparked controversy ahead of their FA Cup quarter-final clash with Leeds United on Sunday.

The Hammers warned the Whites that a potential penalty shootout would need to be taken in front of the home supporters, due to safety concerns.

Daniel Farke‘s side are looking to book a trip to Wembley, for a semi-final against one of Manchester City, Chelsea or Southampton, and they were 1-0 up at the half-time break through Ao Tanaka.

Yorkshire Evening Post journalist Graham Smyth claimed before the 5 April clash that he had heard in the press room that the safety team at the London Stadium had told the Peacocks that a shootout should not be held at the away end.

Ex-PGMOL chief Keith Hackett has reacted to these developments, confirming that, unfortunately, there is nothing Leeds can do about it.

What did Hackett say about West Ham vs Leeds drama?

Hackett believes that Leeds can have no complaints, as they will have been informed about any decision that has been made already.

Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, he said: “The Ground Commander has a very responsible role with regard to safety at football matches.

“Several meetings take place in the days prior to a game to deal with planning a football event.

“The action pointing out to the referee the desired end at which potential penalty kicks to determine the outcome of a game will be taken is often raised with the referee, who will respond positively to the wishes on safety grounds.

“Fully understand that position (that it is unfair to Leeds), but to avoid conflict, the referee will discuss this before kick off with the Manager and both team Captains.”

What is Leeds’ record in shootouts

Farke’s side have a dismal record when it comes to penalty shootouts, winning seven of the 16 that they have contested in their history.

They have already had two this season, losing to Sheffield Wednesday in the Carabao Cup before they overcame Birmingham in this competition in the fourth-round at St Andrew’s.

The drama is unlikely to subside if the LS11 side are knocked out as a result on a shootout, as they will surely feel that they were disadvantaged from the start.