admin“I thought”- Derby manager John Eustace makes HUMBLING Leeds United admission following FA Cup defeat…
Leeds United progressed comfortably through the FA Cup third round with a composed 3-1 victory over Championship side Derby County, sealing their place in the fourth round without major drama.
While the result reflected a professional job well done, Daniel Farke’s rotated side delivered mixed individual performances.
Jack Harrison endured a difficult afternoon, doing little to ease the growing speculation surrounding his future at Elland Road during the January window.
In contrast, Willy Gnonto seized the opportunity of a rare start, standing out as one of Leeds’ brighter performers and underlining the depth at Farke’s disposal.
That depth did not go unnoticed by Derby boss John Eustace, who was left to acknowledge the clear gulf in quality between the two squads.
John Eustace’s frank Leeds United assessment
Eustace had already highlighted Leeds’ summer spending ahead of the tie, and even with the Whites fielding a less-than-full-strength XI, the difference in class was apparent.
Derby briefly threatened an upset by scoring against the run of play, but Leeds responded calmly, asserting control after the break as their Premier League pedigree told.
Reflecting on the defeat via Derby’s official channels, Eustace praised his players’ effort while offering an honest appraisal of the challenge they faced.
He noted that Derby competed well in the first half and matched Leeds for long spells, but admitted his side faded physically after the interval.
Eustace also pointed to Leeds’ exceptional squad depth, referencing the quality that previously carried them to Championship success and has since been further strengthened. His comments underlined a sense of realism about where both clubs currently stand.
Ao Tanaka gives Farke food for thought
One of the standout performers on the night was Ao Tanaka, whose display could force Farke into a selection rethink.
Despite being a regular bench option for much of Leeds’ Premier League campaign — with just seven league starts so far — the Japanese midfielder reminded everyone of his value.
At Elland Road in particular, when Leeds are pushing for wins rather than settling for draws, Tanaka offers creativity and energy that can sometimes be missing in midfield.
While Ilia Gruev has impressed in recent outings, Tanaka’s performance highlighted the luxury Farke has in midfield options.
Ultimately, Tanaka’s role — and the fact he is not an automatic starter — serves as further evidence of Leeds’ squad strength, reinforcing Eustace’s view that, at present, the two clubs are operating on very different levels.
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