Leeds United are in a real electric run of form at the moment.
Since the turn of the New Year, Leeds have won seven of their eight matches, with of those coming in the Championship, allowing them to close the gap on the top two.
Daniel Farke had found an extremely settled starting XI between October and December but a poor run of results over the festive period has handed some fringe players like Ilia Gruev and Junior Firpo to come in and impress, which they have.
But more recently, it is Willy Gnonto who has taken his opportunity during a run of starts following the injury picked up by Dan James in last month’s win over Norwich City at Elland Road.
James had been in fine form up until that point with a goal or assist in every game in the calendar year of 2024, and it was really difficult to see Gnonto ever getting a run in the side at that point.
Farke must start Gnonto on Saturday
Gnonto’s first start following James’ injury came at home to Plymouth Argyle in the FA Cup, where he endured a poor afternoon.
However, the ‘special’ 20-year-old was able to get on the scoresheet in last weekend’s win over Bristol City seven days ago, and has visibly grown in confidence ever since that moment.
Gnonto was then on the scoresheet once again with an emphatic finish in the midweek victory at Home Park, really showing just how good he can be once he gets some rhythm and momentum behind him.
With that in mind, Farke simply has to start Gnonto in tomorrow’s match against Rotherham United so he can continue the form he has shown over the last two matches.
Leeds have a very busy February coming up and so James will have his time to come back into the side, but for now, don’t change what isn’t broken.
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