Advertisement

Leeds United star lucky to avoid red card against Norwich City after 'reckless' tackle

-Credit:Getty Images
-Credit:Getty Images


Ex-Premier League referee Keith Hackett has claimed Ao Tanaka was lucky not to be sent off in Leeds United's home win over Norwich City. The midfielder, who has been a big hit since moving to Elland Road last summer, was booked in the first half by referee Matthew Donohue for a late challenge on Emiliano Marcondes.

The Japan international upended Marcondes again in the early stages of the second half but his mistimed challenge went unpunished. Canaries head coach Johannes Hoff Thorup and his coaching staff remonstrated vehemently with the fourth official, questioning why Donohue did not issue Tanaka with a second yellow card and send him off.

Tanaka was withdrawn in the 55th minute as part of a double substitution, with Ilia Gruev replacing Tanaka in the centre. Junior Firpo took over from Sam Byram at left-back.

READ MORE: Unhappy Norwich City boss questions key refereeing decision in Leeds United defeat

READ MORE: What Leeds United boss Daniel Farke said on Tanaka red card call, Firpo and Norwich City win

Former PGMOL general manager Hackett told MOT Leeds News: "Tanaka should have received a second yellow for this reckless challenge. Well done to his manager, Farke.

“He witnessed what had happened and discreetly did the right thing to stop his team from going down to 10 men.”

The Whites eased to a 2-0 win to regain top spot. Tottenham loanee Solomon fired the quickest goal in the Championship this season, finding the back of the net after just 31 seconds. He then teed up Daniel James for the second in the 65 minute to seal the Whites' 12th home win of the season.

Victory extended their unbeaten run at Elland Road to 13 matches across all competitions.