Jesse Marsch has told his pre-match press conference that Willy Gnonto has an exceptional work-ethic for an 18-year-old, and suggested that his arrival has had a positive impact on Crysencio Summerville.
Gnonto has had to bide his time since arriving at Leeds. He came in after the Whites failed to sign their top striker targets in the final hours of the summer transfer window.
But despite being an Italy international, Marsch has not rushed Gnonto into the fold. He only made his Premier League debut at the weekend, coming on against Liverpool.
Gnonto arrival has helped Summerville
Of course, that game saw Summerville steal the show with the late winner. Gnonto played a key role in the goal. But it was a real moment for Marsch to enjoy, with the Leeds boss showing a lot of faith in the Dutchman.
Interestingly, Marsch has suggested that Gnonto’s arrival has been important for Summerville. It may have been the latter who has played a lot more under Marsch. But the Whites boss insisted that he has been hugely impressed by Gnonto’s attitude.
“I talked after the game against Liverpool that a big factor for [Summerville] is discipline and professionalism and work-ethic. I’ve been on top of him again this week to make sure that he has a very good training week. And he has. He’s looked really good. And we’re hopeful that he can establish himself more and more,” he told his press conference.
“And Willy is in the same vain except that his professionalism and work-ethic and clarity for what this world is is incredibly good. He’s very mature for an 18-year-old. And it’s interesting because Cree and Willy have sparked up a really good friendship. And I think that Willy’s had a really positive affect on Cree.”
Marsch will be wary of deviating from the plan with Gnonto. One bright cameo highlighted his potential. However, he is still a work in progress. And it may not do him many favours to expect a lot from him just yet.
But clearly, he is a very exciting talent. He certainly did not look like a teenager making his debut when he came on against Liverpool on Saturday. He was smart in possession. And he did not panic in key moments.
It was Summerville’s moment to shine with the winner. But Gnonto’s role on and off the pitch clearly cannot be ignored.
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