Javi Gracia has suggested Wilfried Gnonto’s versatility could be a big asset for Leeds United in the coming weeks and months. Gnonto was a surprise omission last weekend at Chelsea, dropping to the bench after 11 straight Premier League starts as Gracia looked to others to play their part at Stamford Bridge.
He did eventually enter the fray, replacing Georginio Rutter in the 68th minute of the contest and for a brief period he took up a central position alongside Mateo Joseph, while Jack Harrison remained on the left. Gnonto did move out to the wing shortly after, though, and that’s where the Italian has spent the majority of his Leeds career so far.
However, Gracia has not ruled out the possibility of using him through the middle again as Leeds attempt to climb away from the relegation zone and secure their Premier League status.
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The notion comes following Roberto Mancini's comments earlier this week, admitting Gnonto could be asked to lead the line for Italy in this month’s international fixtures against England and Malta, due to the Azzurri’s dearth of attacking options. And, it seems Gracia shares Mancini’s belief in Gnonto’s ability to make a difference in such a role.
“Yeah, I think it’s a good option,” the Spaniard said in the build-up to Saturday’s clash against Brighton and Hove Albion at Elland Road. “In the last game against Chelsea, when he started to play he was a second forward and after when we changed the game we put him on the left to finish the game.
“I think in both positions he can make the difference, his qualities are good to play in both positions as a second striker and as a left winger as well.”
The 19-year-old is no stranger to the position having made a name for himself at FC Zurich while playing as a second striker and his goals helped propel the club to last season’s Swiss Super League title. However, prior to Gracia’s arrival, he had been used exclusively as a winger at Leeds, cutting in and attempting to wreak havoc with his quality and pace in possession.
Gracia has favoured playing two up front at some of his previous clubs and Gnonto would fit into such a system as a partner to Rodrigo, Patrick Bamford or even club record signing Georginio Rutter.
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