Daniel Farke explains why Wilfried Gnonto made him nervous during Leeds United’s win over Sheffield United

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Leeds United’s night against Sheffield United could not have gone much better but in the aftermath, there has been a bit of concern regarding Wilfried Gnonto and his shoulder.

The Italy star had gone into Friday’s clash in excellent form, scoring one and laying on three assists in his last four appearances for Leeds. But, inside the first 10 minutes, the Italy star went over on his shoulder.

Tony Dorigo even noticed Gnonto speak to the physio just before half-time during he game about the knock to his shoulder. With a quick turnaround for Tuesday’s game, there were doubts regarding Gnonto.

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Daniel Farke delivers update on Wilfried Gnonto’s shoulder

Prior to the October break or even against Sheffield United, losing Gnonto would have been a blow with both Manor Solomon and Dan James sidelined. Losing Gnonto would still be a big blow for The Whites.

But at least now, Solomon and James are fit having playing slightly more than 20 minutes against Chris Wilder’s side. However, Farke told Monday’s press conference that Gnonto will be available for Watford.

“Very close [to substituting him]. I brought Manor Solomon to the bench after 10 minutes and got rid of his warm-up clothes. Willy gave the sign it was improving. I was nervous after the game,” Farke reported.

“Adrenaline can keep you going but we scanned him after the game and it is just a bruise to his shoulder. It was a bit painful after the game but it has already eased up a little bit and he will be available,” he said.

Wilfried Gnonto has started 14 Championship games in a row

This season, Gnonto has started all 10 league games for Leeds. The 13-time Italy international has started 14 league games in a row, and named in the starting line-up in 22 of Leeds’ 31 league games in 2024.

If Gnonto is even 80% fit on Tuesday night against Watford, then he will start. He is one of the first names on the team sheet and clearly, Farke sees him as one of the club’s most-important players right now.

Luciano Spalletti recently said that Gnonto is close to returning to Italy’s squad and it will be in the star’s best interests to continue starting games for Leeds, even if he is not 100% fit and nursing a knock.