"This is where" - Ao Tanaka's vow and plea as huge challenge awaits Leeds United ace after starring for Japan

Leeds United star Ao Tanaka has made a vow after helping Japan to the knockout stages of the World Cup were a massive test now awaits.

Tanaka was an unused substitute for Japan’s group stage opening draw against the Netherlands but the Whites midfielder came into the starting line-up for the second game against Tunisia and starred in a 4-0 success.

Tanaka then kept his place in the side for the group stage finale against Sweden in which the Leeds ace again impressed as his side sealed a 1-1 draw and qualification for the competition’s knockout stages as Group F runners-up.

A massive test against five-time winners Brazil now awaits in a mouth-watering last 32 clash on Monday evening, ahead of which Tanaka vowed to give his all with a plea to join him in rooting for Japan.

Taking to his Instagram page, Tanaka wrote: “This is where the real battle starts. Just going to give it my all. Please join me in fighting. Let’s go Japan.”

Clearly showing his approval, Whites team mate Gabi Gudmundsson responded with a reply of “class” together with an emoji of a magic wand.