Paul Robinson stunned by Willy Gnonto axe, says he is Leeds United’s best player

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Paul Robinson has told Sky Sports News (Wednesday, 11.50AM) that he cannot understand the decision made by Leeds United manager Javi Gracia to leave Willy Gnonto out of the starting XI for games against Chelsea and Brighton.

Leeds have dropped into the relegation zone after Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Brighton. A good result against a very in-form side but not enough to stop going into the bottom three – with Bournemouth and Everton both securing wins.

With a tough trip to Wolves up next, and then the international break kicking in – Leeds really need a win at Molineux this weekend. A game they did actually win under Jesse Marsch last season, coming back to secure a 3-2 victory.

Robinson spoke ahead of Saturday’s trip to the Midlands about the absence of Gnonto. He said he cannot understand why Gracia left Gnonto out of the XI for the last two games – with Gnonto coming off the bench to shine on Saturday.

“Them and me both [Robinson and Leeds fans mystified at Gnonto not starting]. He has been the best player in a Leeds shirt since his emergence. Very direct, a real goal threat, off the left or the right. He’s used him as an impact sub.

“Perhaps, he didn’t like his defensive qualities. The biggest problem Leeds have had is scoring goals – if you’re going to stay in the Premier League, you need goals. Gnonto is that, he is Leeds’ best player,” Robinson told Sky Sports News.

Robinson cannot understand decision to leave Gnonto out of Leeds XI

It does seem a strange one. Brenden Aaronson has come in in attacking midfield, with Jack Harrison and Crysencio Summerville either side of him. But Summerville has had little effect, while Aaronson continues to show he is too weak.

The American shows some lovely touches and the American connection between himself, Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie is certainly there. But, when put under pressure, he is simply not strong enough. Leeds need much more.

Surely, putting Harrison into the middle of the attacking trio and playing Gnonto on the left makes sense. Luis Sinisterra is back to also challenge Summerville on the right flank and you would expect, the Colombian gets a go.