Willy Gnonto was back on the score sheet over the weekend as he starred in Italy U21’s 7-0 win over San Marino, but a video of the highlights show the Leeds United attacker clutching his hamstring.
Gnonto, 19, has struggled for game time at Elland Road this season. The Italy ace refused to play for us in August before injury against Hull hampered momentum. He’s started one of our last 10 league games.
The Italian’s future is also in doubt. Calcio Style say Lazio are very interested in luring Gnonto back to Italy, and are preparing a loan deal with an obligation to buy him for £13m next summer. Seems cheap.
Last Thursday, Gnonto scored twice for Italy’s 21’s as they dispatched San Marino with ease. The Leeds ace starred, also winning a penalty. Italian media said he was the best player on the pitch on the night.
Since then, Italy’s official account have posted a video of the highlights. On 1:37, Gnonto – who was given the armband on the night – was seen holding his hamstring. A worry for Leeds, ahead of Friday.
Leeds attacker Gnonto seen clutching hamstring on Italy duty
What will be interesting is whether Gnonto will be playing on Tuesday night, when Italy take on Ireland’s U21 side away from home. At least, it will be a short journey home for the Leeds teen – after the game.
But, he might not be involved. Surely if he has picked up a bit of a hamstring strain or even a pull, he will not be involved at all and might even be back at Thorp Arch. Certainly, one to watch on Tuesday night.
Gnonto is an excellent talent and Leeds will need him fit for the busy Christmas period, even if he is not starting games as things stand. Cree Summerville and Dan James are explosive and will need a rest.
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