Anton Stach Of Leeds United during the Leeds United FC v Newcastle United FC English Premier League match, Daniel Farke is present during the Premi...
Credit: Imago
Declan Carr
Sun 5 April 2026 20:10, UK
Anton Stach was forced off in Leeds United‘s FA Cup quarter-final clash, leaving Keith Hackett absolutely furious.
Stach was caught by Max Kilman in the 34th minute at the London Stadium after he had gotten his shot away.
The Whites wanted a penalty, but the decision went in favour of the hosts, and it was not awarded by referee Craig Pawson.
VAR backed up his call, claiming that the coming together was natural, but the EX-FIFA referee disagrees with that.
Leeds will be praying that Stach is not seriously injured, after he had to leave the pitch after 38 minutes of action.
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What did Hackett say about Stach decision?
Stach had to go off for Leeds early as a result of the challenge, and that was a huge blow for Farke’s side.
Hackett thinks the officials got it wrong, and it should have been a spot kick and he cannot fathom why it was not awarded.
Yes he was wiped out after the shot. Stach back on his feet. Hobbling.
VAR evidently deciding we're okay to go with just a corner.
0-1#lufc
— Graham Smyth (@GrahamSmyth) April 5, 2026
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Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, he said: “Wow- this is a foul challenge and should have resulted in the award of a penalty kick.
“The law criteria for a careless challenge by the defender is outlined below:
“Careless is when a player shows a lack of attention or consideration when making a challenge or acts without precaution.
“It was a foul and should have resulted in a penalty kick.
“The fact that the forward had his shot on goal does not discount the foul.”
Who could replace Stach for Leeds if he is injured?
Daniel Farke has several options that could replace his fellow German if he is ruled out for any period.
Brenden Aaronson replaced the former Hoffenheim man from the substitutes bench in East London, but he is typically a starter in the league.
Player Appearances
Sean Longstaff 21
Brenden Aaronson 33
Ao Tanaka 24
Ilia Gruev 23
Leeds’ potential replacements for Stach.
Sean Longstaff is one potential replacement, the ex-Newcastle man has featured 17 times in the top-flight so far this season.
Another is Ao Tanaka, who got the opening goal for the Whites, he has struggled for minutes in the league recently, playing seven minutes in the last five matches.
Ilia Gruev could be called upon, he has been one of Farke’s favourites this season, and proved to be a reliable starter when needed.