Credit: Imago

Declan Carr

Mon 6 April 2026 16:10, UK

Lucas Perri was the hero for Leeds United in their FA Cup penalty shootout win over West Ham.

The Brazilian goalkeeper has struggled recently, losing his place in the starting line-up to back-up Karl Darlow.

However, he was thrust back into the team for the London Stadium clash, and he fully justified his selection with his heroics.

The 28-year-old saved two penalties, from Jarrod Bowen and Pablo to seal the Elland Road side’s place in the semi-final against Chelsea.

Perri’s future at Leeds was looking uncertain, before the clash with Hammers, but he may well have cemented it with his showing.

What is Perri’s contract situation with Leeds?

Perri signed a four-year contract when he joined Leeds, in a £14million deal from French side Olympique Lyon.

That means that his current deal does not expire until 30 June 2029, so he still has another three years and two months with the LS11 club.

Obviously, they could choose to move him on in the transfer window, but his seems set to remain with the Peacocks for now.

What did Perri say?

Perri was delighted with his performance in the shooutout, and loves the fact that he helped the side get to the semi-finals.

Speaking to the BBC, he said: “This is the magic of the Cup, anything can happen, and today was a crazy and memorable game.

“I’m happy that we won the match and we are into the semi-finals now.”

If he continues to perform the way he did, then perhaps he can work his way back into the team.

Why Darlow’s situation makes it more interesting

Darlow’s contract situation may make it easier for Perri to earn his place back, as the Welshman’s deal is expiring.

The former Newcastle man is yet to sign a new deal, meaning that he would be allowed to leave on a free transfer if nothing changes.

He may well have earned one, but if he does not get one, then the Brazilian surely has the chance to take over the number one shirt.

What did Daniel Farke say?

Daniel Farke admitted that he felt joy for the goalkeeper, after the tough year that he has endured since joining the Yorkshire club.

He urged his players to follow his example, as they try to fight against a potential relegation from the top-flight.

He said: “I’m delighted for Lucas, he has not had the easiest year, he’s had to deal with two major injuries, was not in his best shape and didn’t have the game time he would have wished for.

“Today is a bit of a sign of how we are and how we should be, we’re perhaps not perfect, just a promoted side, sometimes there with mistakes.

“Lucas had situations where he could have done better, but to show mentality and be there with decisive saves, he deserved to be there with all the plaudits, it’s a perfect example of how we should be, not perfect, but if we keep fighting and we’re mentally strong, we can celebrate.”

That suggests that he has impressed the German boss, and he still has faith in his ability.