Red Bull send Ao Tanaka ‘powerful’ Leeds message after Sheffield United win
Red Bull reacted to Ao Tanaka’s message to Leeds fans following the incredible scenes at Bramall Lane during the 3-1 win over Sheffield United on Monday.
The Japan international helped Daniel Farke’s side continue their 16-game unbeaten run despite an early own goal from Leeds goalkeeper Illan Meslier on 24 February.
Junior Firpo started the comeback, crashing into the box with a diving header to finish off Dan James’ cross, with Tanaka and Joel Piroe scoring twice in two minutes to secure all three points.
The victory saw the Whites keep their rightful place at the top of the Championship table, jumping five points ahead of their rivals with just 14 games left to play.
Ao Tanaka stars in late Leeds victory
Taking to Instagram following the win, Tanaka wrote: “Huge 3 points again on Monday night,” to which Red Bull replied: “Powerful,” with a lightning rod emoji.
Red Bull, who own a minority stake at Elland Road, also have controlling stakes in RB Leipzig, RB Salzburg and New York Red Bulls, and are clearly attempting to keep the connection close in England.
Leeds now one step closer to Premier League promotion
Football Insider verdict
The Whites are showing all the credentials needed to become champions and earn promotion back to the Premier League, and that is exactly what Farke promised.
Few supporters should be surprised, having seen what the manager achieved during his time with Norwich City, and only missing out on promotion last season via the play-off final.
| Championship standings | Points |
| 1. Leeds | 75 |
| 2. Sheffield United | 70 |
| 3. Burnley | 68 |
Many were distraught after losing stars Archie Gray to Tottenham, Crysencio Summerville and Georginio Rutter in the summer, but there have been few wobbles this term to suggest they are incredibly missed.
While there are still likely plenty of twists and turns left in this Championship campaign, Leeds have put themselves in a great position to seal automatic promotion without the worry of the play-offs.
The main concern will be keeping hold of all these players once the summer transfer window opens, with Tanaka already being tipped to leave Leeds and star in the Premier League.
Of course, winning promotion will ease some of the pressure of having to sell their best players because they will be playing against some of the top teams in the country each week.