Daniel Farke deserves plaudits for genius Leeds United decision after what ‘quality’ player did
For the third second time in as many games, Leeds United salvaged a positive result in the Premier League and boosted their survival hopes.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s second-half header clinched Leeds’ 1-1 draw against Brentford on Sunday, and that came after a thrilling 3-3 draw at home to Liverpool.
Calvert-Lewin’s red-hot scoring form has been key to their three-match unbeaten run, with the Englishman netting in his previous four matches.
The 28-year-old is proving why he was a bargain signing on a free transfer, and he isn’t the only player who has demonstrated his worth to Daniel Farke.
Willy Gnonto shining off the bench at Leeds United
Things have been looking up for Leeds since Farke switched to a 3-5-2 system in the second half of their 3-2 defeat to Manchester City.
The Whites have offered more of a threat at the top end of the pitch, scoring nine goals in their last four matches, and a two-striker formation is a huge reason why.
That said, a change of system during their last two games – returning to their usual 4-3-3 setup – has been the catalyst for salvaging points, as well as the introduction of Willy Gnonto.
Gnonto was brilliant off the bench against Liverpool, as he won the penalty that Calvert-Lewin slotted home, before assisting the striker with his header last time out.
The 22-year-old has become somewhat of a super sub, utilising his pace and low centre of gravity to trouble tired defences late on.
In many ways, the Italian is unfortunate that Farke has changed to a 3-5-2 formation, as his only route into the team is as a second striker alongside Calvert-Lewin.
Gnonto was introduced as a right winger against Brentford and had an immediate impact, which proves he’s doing everything to start.
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Gnonto could grow frustrated at Leeds
After scoring nine and assisting six in the Championship last term, the exciting winger would have expected a more prominent role in Farke’s Premier League plans.
Of course, missing weeks with injury and a system change haven’t helped, but Gnonto could grow frustrated with his lack of starting opportunities.
| Willy Gnonto’s stats vs Brentford |
| 17 minutes played |
| 1 assist |
| 2 key passes |
| 11 touches |
| 4 accurate passes |
Addressing his role as a super sub after the draw with Brentford, Gnonto accepted that there is strong competition in the squad, and he will continue to take his chance to impress.
“Obviously, the team is playing well. I think we have lots of good players, and I can say the competition is quite high, but at the same time, you know, I have to try and use all my chances,” he said post-match.
“I think I did it today. I did against Liverpool, and I just have to keep going like this.”
Gnonto, who has been dubbed ‘quality’ by Jamie Redknapp on Sky Sports coverage, will play a vital role in dictating whether Leeds avoid relegation or return to the Championship.
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