Leeds United fans instantly start Wilfried Gnonto chant v Birmingham
Leeds United supporters wasted little time in letting Wilfried Gnonto know their feelings after the wantaway forward made himself unavailable for selection against Birmingham City.
The Whites confirmed in a statement on their official website on the eve of Saturday’s [12 August] Championship showdown with Birmingham that Gnonto had withdrawn from their matchday squad for the second game running amid uncertainty over his future.
According to Yorkshire Evening Post reporter Graham Smyth, Leeds fans in attendance at St Andrew’s could be heard aiming a chant towards the absent Everton target in the opening stages of the contest.
“Leeds fans singing ‘refused to play, don’t come back’ in the away end,” Smyth tweeted with the game – Leeds’ third of the season in all competitions – locked at 0-0.
Unhappy
Leeds supporters sold out their allocation for the away trip to Birmingham and used the opening stages of the game to let Gnonto know he is no longer welcome at Elland Road.
Whereas a number of United players have got their heads down following relegation from the Premier League last season, Gnonto has made it clear he wants out.
A player wanting to stay in the top flight following relegation is nothing new, but the way the 19-year-old has gone about it is what has particularly angered United’s loyal fanbase.
Gnonto refused to play in the midweek EFL Cup tie against Shrewsbury Town and likewise against Birmingham, coming in the week that it was reported he is now top of Everton’s transfer wishlist [TEAMtalk].
Despite suggestions he is available to purchase this summer for £25million, Leeds reiterated in their club statement that the Italy international is not for sale.
However, supporters have made their stance known in the stands, and there is surely now no way back for Gnonto. Given the importance of everyone pulling in the same direction under Daniel Farke, it may well be that United chiefs cut their losses and let the Italian get his own way.
Should that not be the case and Leeds stick to their word by rejecting any formal offers for Gnonto, it could lead to a messy situation between the young player and those who help to pay his wages every week.
In other Leeds United news, midfielder Tyler Adams is still expected to leave the club despite a move to Chelsea falling through this week.