Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Wed 11 March 2026 19:40, UK

Leeds United will be looking to extend their cushion above the relegation zone against Crystal Palace, and the latest injury update on Daniel Munoz could present a chance for Wilfried Gnonto.

The Italian winger started just his seventh game of the season as the Whites beat Norwich 3-0 in the FA Cup.

Throughout the season, the 22-year-old has ultimately been a bit-part player under Daniel Farke, playing just 20 times this campaign.

However, there could now be a reason to give him another chance in the starting lineup as Leeds face Crystal Palace.

Why Wilfried Gnonto could be considered to start by Daniel Farke

Munoz is a doubt for Crystal Palace when they face Leeds, with Glasner confirming the defender is working to be fit for the weekend.

Glasner said: “Daniel will miss this game [against AEK Larnaca]. He’s working hard with our medical staff to be ready for the Leeds game.”

However, there is every chance he is not available. If that is the case, then starting a natural winger is the optimal move by Farke.

Nathaniel Clyne is the likely candidate to be positioned in Munoz’ place, and at 34 years old, a tricky winger could have a field day against him.

Although Brenden Aaronson has been preferred out on the left recently, the American is not quite a natural wide man compared to Gnonto.

Throughout his career, Aaronson has played just 23 per cent of his games out wide.

Dan James is another player who could be put out on the left, but against Norwich he was chosen on the right with Gnonto on the other wing.

Although neither was truly impressive against the Canaries, Munoz’ injury presents a unique opportunity for Farke to really target a key weak point in the Eagles’ defence.

Gnonto may have a chance to surmount his Norwich display as he looks to revive his Elland Road career.

Why Gnonto can still impress if Farke decides against start vs Crystal Palace

Even if Gnonto is not trusted to start, the option of utilising the Italian against a tired Clyne is still an attractive prospect.

If Leeds are looking for a goal, Gnonto must surely be one of the first that the German turns towards.

It has been a tough season for the 22-year-old, but when he has qualities that can make life difficult for the opposition, that is something worth thinking about.

The Leeds forward is certainly fighting for his future in LS11, and if he fails to impress in the remaining months of the campaign, then this may be his last for the Whites.