Daniel Farke given selection headache after what Leeds United history-maker did vs Derby
Leeds United face Fulham this weekend, and Daniel Farke has a big call to make.
Leeds booked their place in the next round of the FA Cup with a 3-1 win against Derby County, but to say it was with ease would be lying.
The Whites were woeful in the first half, but a much-improved second half display saw goals from Willy Gnonto, Ao Tanaka, and James Justin flip the game on its head.
Several players impressed in that second period in particular, and one has given Farke food for thought ahead of their return to Premier League action.
Ao Tanaka proves his worth in FA Cup comeback
Farke will have his reasons, but Ao Tanaka’s omission at Leeds has been baffling this season, especially when taking into account just how good he was in the Championship.
On the occasion he has been given a fair run in the team this season, he has taken his chance, and it was no different against Derby.
It was his through ball that led to Lukas Nmecha winning a penalty for Leeds, and it was his goal that gave the Whites the lead just minutes after Gnonto equalised.
However, it was his all-round game that impressed.
- 72/79 passes completed (91% accuracy)
- Three chances created
- Three tackles
- Five duels won
- Two fouls won
He was certainly the standout for Leeds, and his display gives Farke something to think about ahead of Fulham’s trip to Elland Road.
Ilia Gruev, Anton Stach and Ethan Ampadu started the last league game, and Farke needs to find a way to get Tanaka back into that team.
Tanaka made history for Leeds vs Derby
Aside from impressing, Tanaka also contributed in another meaningful way for Leeds at Pride Park, making history in the process.
Not only was his goal the first time he had scored in the FA Cup, but it was also the first time an Asian player had scored for Leeds in the competition.
He’s a threat in front of goal and is more than capable of pulling his weight defensively, making his inclusion from now on an absolute no-brainer.