Leeds United employee backs Wilfried Gnonto promotion after what he’s just seen
Noel Whelan has claimed Wilfried Gnonto is “ready to step up” and play in the Leeds United senior side after his Italy cameo against England on Friday (23 September).
The former Whites striker and club ambassador, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, backed the 18-year-old to “work opposition backlines very hard” with his “very aggressive” nature.
Gnonto played 27 minutes from the bench and helped Italy close out a 1-0 win over England at San Siro.
The Leeds United starlet, who signed on transfer deadline day (1 September) has now made five appearances for the Azzurri’s senior side, scoring once.
Sources told Football Insider on 2 September FC Zurich wanted £7million for the forward before eventually buckling and agreeing a £4million deal.
Gnonto has also racked up 74 club appearances despite his youth – notching 12 goals and 10 assists in the process.
Whelan backed the youngster for further senior involvement after making his Whites debut in Under-21 action earlier this month (16 September).
He told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “He’s one of these players with loads of energy.
“He looks very aggressive, and someone who is going to work opposition backlines very hard.
“I think he’s someone who is ready to step up for Leeds United and he’ll have impressed Jesse Marsch with that cameo.
“He’s another forward option and someone who can help us win football matches right away.
“He looks a handy player and a really good buy at the moment.”
Leeds United sit 11th in the Premier League after picking up eight points from their first six games.
The Whites face Aston Villa on Sunday (2 October).
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