Junior Firpo reacts to Ao Tanaka’s message to Leeds fans amid ‘exit’ claim
Ao Tanaka was in high spirits after Leeds reclaimed top spot in the Championship with a crucial victory over Millwall.
Leeds capitalised on Sheffield United and Burnley dropping points in the promotion race, securing a 2-0 win over Millwall that put them back in control of their Premier League ambitions.
The opening goal came just three minutes in when Jake Cooper inadvertently turned Manor Solomon’s cross into his own net.
Tanaka put in a standout performance and sealed the victory with a stunning strike into the top-left corner after being set up by Junior Firpo.
Leeds have been touted to prepare for Tanaka’s exit as the side are linked back to former player Kalvin Phillips in a summer move. However, despite the uncertainty, the midfielder had a message for the fans following the win.
Junior Firpo joins Jayden Bogle and Joe Rodon in showing support for Ao Tanaka
The 26-year-old shared a message after his crucial goal and Leeds’ victory, keeping it short but determined: “Just keep pushing.”
His post received plenty of reactions from teammates, with Joe Rodon responding with emojis and Jayden Bogle commenting: “Player.”
Firpo, who provided the assist for Tanaka’s goal, also left a heartfelt message, saying: “You’re welcome. Absolute baller.”
Leeds fans have been calling for the club to offer Firpo a new contract, as the full-back’s current deal expires this summer. However, the club has yet to provide any updates on whether he will stay or leave.
| Championship standings | Points |
| 1. Leeds United | 79 |
| 2. Sheffield United | 77 |
| 3. Burnley | 75 |
Kalvin Phillips linked with Leeds return as Ao Tanaka proves Premier League quality
Tanaka has been a key player for Daniel Farke ever since his £3.4 million move from German side Fortuna Dusseldorf last summer.
The midfielder has started 29 of Leeds’ 37 Championship matches, consistently keeping the likes of Ethan Ampadu, Joe Rothwell, and Ilia Gruev out of the starting XI while stepping up to replace Archie Gray.
However, The Sun have suggested that Phillips could make a ‘fairytale’ return to Elland Road this summer, adding further speculation over Tanaka’s future.
Meanwhile, former Aston Villa midfielder Lee Hendrie has described Tanaka as “ready” for the Premier League, following a season of top-drawer performances.
Leeds’ promotion hopes remain finely balanced, but whether Tanaka will be playing in the Premier League with them next season still remains to be seen.