Leeds United player joins in fan chants after FA Cup win v Harrogate Town. Credit: Imago

Leeds United star spotted in Elland Rd carpark chants after win v Harrogate Town

Senior Correspondent AUTHORITY Senior football journalist specialising in refereeing and officiating; former contributor to The Football League Paper, Late Tackle, and the Premier League; University of Derby graduate. FOCUS Refereeing controversies, football finance and governance, PGMOL decisions, and officiating analysis across the Premier League, EFL, and SPFL. THE INSIGHT Harri utilises a network of officiating and industry contacts to deliver verified, expert analysis of refereeing decisions and PGMOL policy. He provides the regulatory clarity behind the controversy to ensure fans get the full picture.

Published on:

12 Jan 2025, 8:40 am

Wilfried Gnonto joined the Leeds United fans in the Elland Road carpark following the 1-0 win over Harrogate Town on Saturday.

The 20-year-old was replaced by Ilia Gruev in the closing stages of the FA Cup clash on 11 January, with Largie Ramazani's 59th-minute goal proving the difference on the day.

While Daniel Farke is likely to be far from satisfied with the performance, the fans decided to show their appreciation for star midfielder Ao Tanaka, who played just 25 minutes from the bench.

Writing via the Yorkshire Evening Post [12 January], Graham Smyth noticed: "Willy Gnonto gleefully joining in the Ao Tanaka chants with fans awaiting the players in the carpark.

"The Italian was grinning from ear to ear as he yelled 'Ay Oh' while getting into his car."

Ao Tanaka receives deserved recognition at Leeds United

Tanaka has been an incredible addition to Farke's squad for the 2024/25 campaign, especially playing a vital role in the absence of Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev.

Even with both star midfielders returning from injury in recent weeks, the Japanese international is likely to keep his spot in the starting XI, having barely put a foot wrong this term.

While the performance was nothing to shout about, only beating League Two opposition by one goal, the Whites are still through to the fourth round of the FA Cup.

Leeds United midfielder, Ao Tanaka [Credit: Imago]

Of course, the main focus will be on securing promotion to the Premier League this season, but with the potential chance of silverware in the FA Cup, the players will not turn down a chance for more glory.

Tanaka could definitely play an important role in both of those feats being achieved at Elland Road, that is if the Whites can keep hold of him amid plenty of interest from elsewhere in the January window.

In other Leeds United news, a Daniel Farke sack verdict has been shared after what’s been heard at Elland Road.

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Leeds United

Harrogate Town

Wilfried Gnonto