Willy Gnonto made his return to action in a Leeds United shirt on Saturday after reporting back for pre-season amid reports he could leave – and Graham Smyth uploaded a picture of him signing autographs for fans after the match.
A whole host of players were back in action, following the previous outing – a 2-0 loss to Manchester United. Facing Monaco included Illan Meslier, Ethan Ampadu, Cree Summerville, Charlie Cresswell and Gnonto, for 45 minutes.
Having played for the senior Italy side, and the U21 team in the European Championships this summer, Gnonto came back this week. He was on the bench against Monaco, coming on at half-time. Rumours of an exit continue to stir.
Gnonto actually conceded a penalty, which Wissam Ben-Yedder duly tucked away. Kevin Volland got the second, the German producing a wonderful header. After the game, Gnonto stayed on for a while to hand out his signature.
Smyth, on reporting duty for the YEP, uploaded a picture of Gnonto in front of some fans at York’s LNER stadium, as he signed photographs, shirts and the like. Smyth said that the winger had been doing so for “ages” this afternoon.
Gnonto picture: Leeds star signs autographs for ages after full-time
While Gnonto is being linked with the exit door – Everton and Serie A clubs are among his admirers – you cannot deny his enthusiasm for Leeds, and his attitude. A top player, but both on and off of it. The 49ers want him to stay.
In the Championship, you can imagine Gnonto would have a field day. Just look at his performances against Cardiff in the FA Cup. Spell-binding. The lack of an exit clause plays in our favour. Fingers crossed, he starts on August 6.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
