Leigh Bromby has highlighted the Leeds United teenager who was once a defensive issue but now appears to have completely improved his game.
For the first time this season, Leeds are leading the Championship. Daniel Farke’s side defeated Millwall 2-0 on Sunday, with the Whites putting on a professional effort at Elland Road.
Millwall were clearly determined to follow Huddersfield’s lead. Neil Harris’ side was ready for fight. They were delighted to see the game interrupted. With that, it was critical that we scored the first goal.
Willy Gnonto gets praised for his development following Leeds win.
Thankfully, Willy Gnonto was the man for the occasion. The Italian struck an incredible goal in the first half to break the tie. Since the turn of the year, the 20-year-old has been in top form.
It’s astounding to consider where Gnonto has been this season. Of course, during the early days of the campaign, Gnonto was linked to departing. And his desire to depart caused him to distance himself from Farke.
It took him some time to have a significant impact. Gnonto, however, has made significant progress in areas other than goalkeeping.
Speaking on BBC Radio Leeds, Leigh Bromby indicated that the attacking players have improved their tracking back and defending abilities.
No one has improved more than Gnonto.
“He was quite poor at it. Managers dropped him because he did not backtrack and instead attacked. And that was amazing because, as a fan, you see it and go, “Wow, what a talent this guy has.” If you play on his team, you believe he’s a liability because he’s not contributing to the team,” he said.
“That’s completely altered. You can see him tracking back today. You notice him working for the team. That is based on what the manager wants in place.”
Italian has made a significant difference in recent weeks.
Some may have worried about Gnonto after he played such a minor role in the early months of the season. Obviously, this came after he suffered during the latter weeks of our relegation campaign.
But those of us who doubted him have been proven wrong. His five league goals since the beginning of February have been instrumental in propelling Leeds to the top of the table.
But his development as a team player has been equally significant.
