Leeds United are nervously awaiting an update on star forward Willy Gnonto after he was substituted at half-time during Italy U21s’ 7-0 win over San Marino.
The young forward was on the receiving end of a heavy challenge just before the break, and while he was able to continue for the remainder of the first half, he did not return for the second.
Gnonto, who captained the Italian side in their European Under-21 Championship qualifier, is now a key player for Leeds, especially following the summer departures of Crysencio Summerville and Georginio Rutter.
He has made a strong start to the season, scoring on the opening day against Portsmouth and playing a crucial role in victories over Sheffield Wednesday and Hull City.
Any potential injury to him would be a significant blow to manager Daniel Farke, particularly with a key clash against promotion rivals Burnley looming on September 14 at Elland Road.
Leeds are already sweating over the fitness of winger Dan James, and losing Gnonto would further deplete Farke’s attacking options.
The fact that Gnonto was able to continue until half-time, however, suggests his substitution might have been precautionary, as Italy U21s have another match against Norway on September 10.
Italy U21 manager Carmine Nunziata did not raise any concerns over Gnonto’s fitness when speaking after the game. Instead, he focused on injuries to other players, Jacapo Fazzini and Tommaso Baldanzi. Speaking to reporters, he said:
“We are happy with the victory and for not having received cards with the players who are cautioned. The only disappointment is the physical problems of Fazzini and Baldanzi, who we hope to recover.”
Leeds will be hoping that Gnonto’s withdrawal was a minor issue and that he will be fit in time for the Burnley game.