Leeds United registered their 23rd Championship win of the season and capitalised on Sheffield United and Sunderland dropping points to go two points clear with a win over Millwall last night.
Nerves were high at Elland Road on Wednesday night with Leeds coming into the game after securing just one point from the last two games, drawing against West Brom before a shock defeat at Portsmouth.
With Sheffield United conceding late to Bristol City and Burnley unable to beat West Brom themselves, Leeds had the chance to re-assert their lead at the top of the Championship table and they did just that.
An own goal got Leeds off to a flyer as Manor Solomon’s cross was deflected by both Jake Cooper and Lukas Jensen before bobbling into the Millwall net. Ao Tanaka scored his fourth of the season late on.
Ao Tanaka sends three-word message to Leeds fans on Instagram
Last season, Leeds’ four midfielders – Archie Gray, Ilia Gruev, Ethan Ampadu and Glen Kamara – managed four goals. On Wednesday night, Tanaka netted his fourth goal and sixth goal and assist from midfield.
Leeds have got themselves a real gem in Tanaka for a bargain fee of £3.4m. His agent thinks he is ready for the Premier League and he’s right but hopefully it is with Leeds and The Whites do get promoted.
On Thursday, Tanaka sent a message to Leeds fans on Instagram: “Just keep pushing”.
Jayden Bogle and Junior Firpo respond to Ao Tanaka’s post
There are a few shouts within this Leeds side for Player of the Season. Piroe is up there in terms of goals scored, and no one has as many as his 21 involvements. Joe Rodon has been colossal in central defence.
Dan James is probably worthy of a shout as well, but if there is one player that has done a bit of it all, it is Tanaka. The Japan star continues to shine, joining a year after Daniel Farke initially tried to sign him.
The Leeds squad know they have a player on their hands in Tanaka, too. Junior Firpo laid on the assist for Tanaka and he said “You’re welcome, absolute baller” while Jayden Bogle also commented “player”.
With the March international break on the horizon, Leeds have one more game to play before the league takes a breather. A trip to QPR, a fixture that derailed Leeds’ promotion hopes during the 23-24 season.
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