Red Bull send message to Ao Tanaka after what Leeds star did v Sheffield United
Ao Tanaka produced a dazzling performance as Leeds United beat Sheffield United 3-1 in the Championship on Monday.
An Illan Meslier own goal put Leeds at a disadvantage early on in the game, but Junior Firpo grabbed an equaliser in the 72nd minute, setting the match for a tense climax.
Tanaka then put the Bramall Lane visitors in front with just one minute left in normal time before Joel Piroe doubled the lead for the Whites in the 90th minute, allowing them to go five points clear at the top of the Championship table.
Earning comeback wins against their rivals in two consecutive games, Leeds proved their credentials as Championship table-toppers and Premier League promotion contenders.
Red Bull brands Tanaka ‘powerful’
Tanaka later took to social media to express his delight at helping Leeds claim a 3-1 victory over the Blades.
“Huge three points again on Monday night”, the midfielder wrote on Instagram (25 February).
| Stat | Tanaka |
| Minutes | 90 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Chances Created | 2 |
| Accurate Passes | 42/51 (82%) |
| Touches | 70 |
| Duels Won | 3/6 |
| Defensive Actions | 12 |
Pascal Struijk was among those to tip his hat to the Japan international in the comments, while Red Bull also chimed in.
In a one-word message to Tanaka, Red Bull branded him “powerful” and posted a high-voltage emoji along with it.
Tanaka exceptional for at Leeds
Tanaka has established himself as a key player for Leeds since joining then from Fortuna Dusseldorf for £2.95million in the summer, making 33 appearances across all competitions and registering five goal involvements.
The 26-year-old is certain to have attracted interest from other clubs with his performances for the Elland Road outfit this season, meaning they could lose him before their return to the Premier League.
However, Leeds are likely to make a significant profit on Tanaka if they sell him in the summer.
It is worth noting that the midfielder started the season behind Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev in the pecking order and it was only after the former suffered an injury that he got an extended run in the team.
Farke will be hoping that Tanaka can avoid serious injuries between now and the end of the season as he looks to lead them to the Premier League.