By Dan Carter

19th Nov, 2023 | 8:40am

Archie Gray sends one-word message to Willy Gnonto as exit-linked Leeds United star shares post

Archie Gray has sent a one-word message to Wilfried Gnonto after the exit-linked Leeds United star shared a new post on Instagram.

The Italian winger has been linked with the exit door after a summer of speculation at Elland Road, with the latest suggestion being that Serie A giants Lazio are plotting a loan-to-buy deal for the Leeds star this January [CalcioStyle, 16 November].

But the 19-year-old returned to form with an excellent performance as Italy Under-21s ran out 7-0 winners over San Marino on Thursday (16 October), picking up two goals in Serravalle and even captaining the side for parts of the match.

Gnont shared a post to his Instagram account (18 November) of him wearing the armband and Gray was quick to respond with a one-word reply: “Capitano” followed by a heart eye emoji.

Strength in depth

It is quite remarkable really that a player of Gnonto’s quality has played so little for Leeds United in the early stages of the season, especially given the ability he clearly has. While San Marino Under-21s won’t be the best opposition, the 19-year-old is once again performing on the international circuit.

It wasn’t too long ago he was still a part of the Italian first team, with the winger a part of the September international squad only a matter of months ago. All while struggling for regular minutes on the wing at Elland Road this season.

Part of that has been down to the incredible form of Dan James and Crysencio Summerville in recent weeks, with both of them picking up regular goals and assists, it has been incredibly difficult for the Italian to force his way into the team regularly.

But considering the swirling rumours over Gnonto’s future with Leeds, it is clear his teammates at Elland Road hold him in high regard. Gray’s message of “Capitano” is one of many from a number of Leeds stars heaping praise on the winger for getting the armband at a national level.

As Farke’s side look to kick on in the coming weeks, supporters are likely to see more of Gnonto in a white shirt and if he performs as he has for his national side, it could be a huge boost to Leeds.

In other Leeds United news, one local journalist has slammed Farke and the 49ers for letting Sam Greenwood leave Elland Road