Credit: Imago

Daniel Davis

Mon 6 April 2026 17:40, UK

Leeds United reached their FA Cup semi-final since 1987 after beating West Ham United on penalties, with Ao Tanaka playing an influential role in their success.

Tanaka scored during the last-eight showdown at the London Stadium on Sunday evening, seizing his opportunity after making his first start since March 8.

The Japanese international delivered an impressive all-round display in Daniel Farke‘s midfield, raising awkward questions over his limited minutes to date this season.

He has rarely been trusted from the off, starting just seven matches in the Premier League in 2025-26, but his superb goal against the Hammers demonstrated his quality.

After Leeds booked their spot at Wembley, Wilfried Gnonto had a message for Tanaka.

What did Wilfried Gnonto say to Ao Tanaka?

Tanaka started and finished the move for the opening goal of the game in the capital, having beaten two players before making a darting run inside the penalty area and finishing.

It was a magnificent effort, albeit one aided by a wicked deflection, and a deserved reward for his period spent out in the cold. That, though, looks set to come to an end.

After being withdrawn on 70 minutes, the 27-year-old was able to reflect on a job well done, and while Gnonto was impressed, he was certainly not surprised by his team-mate’s impact.

After Tanaka shared photos of his goal celebrations on Instagram, alongside the caption, “Wembley again”, Gnonto posted a telling message, which read: “No coincidence.”

The true meaning behind his statement may be a mystery, but it is straightforward to read between the lines. Indeed, the ace appeared to echo the resounding views of matchgoers.

Whenever Tanaka is given chances, he delivers. Simple.

Daniel Farke deserves criticism

It is mind-boggling that Farke has been so slow to trust him. He has seemingly been willing to ignore the evidence in front of his own eyes, so keen is he to stick with his favourites.

Yes, Tanaka is up against stiff competition in midfield, but he has proven he can make more of an attacking impression on matches than Ethan Ampadu and Anton Stach.

It should worry Whites supporters that Tanaka is attracting interest from Germany. The club would be foolish to offload him, but he would have every right to look for a move away.

His performance against West Ham proved that. According to Sofascore, he completed 91 per cent of his overall passes, took 60 touches and made five carries with the ball.

Positively, he also won five of his eight ground duels, highlighting his work ethic.

Clearly, then, Farke must hand Tanaka consistent starts, especially with Stach at risk of missing several matches through injury. He will surely be repaid handsomely.