Daniel Farke explains why Wilfried Gnonto is not starting games for Leeds United at the moment

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Wilfried Gnonto has started just one of Leeds United’s last six Championship games with Dan James and Manor Solomon considered first choice at the moment – and Daniel Farke has explained why.

The Italy international had started 19 of the previous 21 Championship games but his form had dipped. It has seen Farke decide to take him out of the starting line-up in five of the last six Championship games.

Gnonto’s early form saw him have a hand in nine goals in the league, but his last goal or assist came in the win over Middlesbrough on December 10. His only involvement in Leeds’ previous 10 league games.

Manor Solomon and Brenden Aaronson are doubts to face Norwich City on Wednesday evening at Elland Road and it may just hand Gnonto a chance to start, whether that be out wide or playing as a no.10.

• READ MORE: Leeds’ promotion rivals Burnley sign player Daniel Farke wanted in his first summer

Daniel Farke explains Wilfried Gnonto’s removal from starting XI

Farke’s decision can hardly be questioned. Solomon is coming into his own and scored again on Sunday, while Dan James has been on fire from the right. Largie Ramazani has a goal and two assists in two.

With Solomon a doubt for Norwich, the chances are that Ramazani comes in given his form and that he’s seen primarily as a left winger while Gnonto plays on the right. Farke gave his take on Gnonto’s minutes.

“He has my trust. Sometimes in the Championship, you have a dip in form – you can’t play all 46 games. I am happy with his development, he is taking more responsibility and becoming more professional.

“He is not as static, much more involved. Much more lively and adventurous, he’s become less predictable compared to last season. The only that is lacking is end product but that is something he can add.”

How Wilfried Gnonto’s numbers compare to three other wingers

Despite his lack of starts over the last six weeks, Gnonto has still played more minutes than Solomon, James and Ramazani. Indeed, the Italy star has still started more games in the league this term for Leeds.

Numbers of Leeds’ four wingers in all competitions this season:

But, his numbers in terms of goals and assists are true. Farke’s point about a lack of end product is fair, given it takes him a lot longer to register an assist or a goal than Leeds’ other options on the flanks.

Whether Gnonto starts on Wednesday night or not remains to be seen, though Farke is likely to make a change or two to keep players fresh for a huge clash against Burnley next Monday away from home.