The Italian made himself unavailable to play against Birmingham City

 

 

 

 

Former Leeds United striker Jermaine Beckford believes Wilfried Gnonto can still salvage his Elland Road career despite the young striker making himself unavailable to play. The Italian international has been linked with a number of clubs this summer following relegation from the Premier League last season.

 

 

 

Premier League side Everton are said to have had an offer for Gnonto rejected, with Leeds reiterating the explosive forward is not for sale. Gnonto started the opening game of the season as the Whites drew 2-2 with Cardiff City, but was left out of the Carabao Cup clash with Shrewsbury Town after making himself unavailable.

 

The former Inter Milan youngster made himself unavailable to play against Birmingham City with the club releasing a statement in the aftermath. Earlier this week a club statement read: “Earlier this week, Willy Gnonto and his representatives were informed by the club that he would not be sold this summer. Following those conversations, Willy felt he was unable to play in Wednesday night’s Carabao Cup tie with Shrewsbury Town.

 

 

“Despite training for the last two days, Willy has informed Daniel Farke that he still does not feel able to play this weekend and has not travelled to Birmingham for the game tomorrow. This is now an internal disciplinary matter and the club will make no further comment, other than to reiterate that Willy Gnonto is not for sale.”

 

However, Beckford believes Gnonto can still play a part for the Whites this season. He told Leeds United’s YouTube channel: “Yes it could be salvageable, as long as when he’s called upon, he knuckles down, puts the work in and shows us that big smile. Ultimately, if there’s a move on the table, there’s a move on the table.

 

 

 

 

“There’s not much people can do as long as the price and valuation is met. What we want to see form the other side of it, is the positivity that got him noticed in the first place. As long as he continues doing that, there’s always a way back.”