was, perhaps surprisingly, chosen to start in place of the injured Dan James over Jaidon Anthony, despite a recent slump in form.
However, Farke made an excellent move, as Gnonto’s first goal since August, just a few minutes into the second half, was the difference between the two teams.
In only his third league appearance in four months, Gnonto’s confidence surged dramatically following his goal, and he will now aim to use it as a fuel to kickstart his season.
Gnonto, of course, has had to overcome the hangover that lasted from the situation surrounding his future in the summer, but speaking after the game, Farke says he has always been ‘totally convinced’ in what he could add to the group.
He said, “First and foremost, Willy Gnonto deserves to be praised. During the summer, I was completely convinced of him. I explained clearly the reasons. Worked with him, supported and trusted him. He had a difficult August.
“We chatted with him, and it’s a stage you must go through. Work and stay on task. Unfortunately, I will be out for a few weeks. Be ready with a goal and an assist. We can just teach him and bring him to the door before he walks through it. That was my opinion from the start; he would be crucial this season.”
Gnonto’s season could have turned out quite differently if not for the performances of those ahead of him, Crysencio Summerville and James.
Both have 35 goals this season, and Gnonto has simply been unable to tie together a run of starts at Elland Road.
However, James’ recent injury gave him the opportunity to stake a claim last night, which he more than took, and it is fair to say his teammates recognized how crucial that was.
