Willy Gnonto has been handed his first start in seven games for Leeds United as they travel to Bournemouth in the Premier League.
Gnonto, 19, has struggled for minutes under head coach Javi Gracia, making just two starts and four substitute appearances in the Spaniard’s 10 Premier League matches in charge of Leeds.
Leeds fans have grown frustrated at Gracia’s decision to only use Gnonto sparingly, amid a run of four games without a victory including consecutive 5-1 and 6-1 home defeats against Crystal Palace and Liverpool respectively.
Gracia was asked about Gnonto’s game time on Friday and said: “You ask me about Willy many times and I always say the same: He’s an exceptional player with an amazing character.
“The last game (the 1-1 draw with Leicester City) I decided to play with Cry (Summerville) but I am sure in the next games Willy will have chances to show.
“It’s something about what I think is better for the team. I choose what’s best for the team.”
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Gnonto’s start for Leeds against Bournemouth comes after the news that fellow forward Luis Sinisterra will not play again this season due to an ankle injury.
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Gnonto joined Leeds from Swiss side FC Zurich in the summer. It had initially been agreed that the Italy international would move to Elland Road in January but his transfer was brought forward in September after Leeds failed to bring in their deadline day targets.
He did not make his Leeds debut until October but the forward then impressed with his direct style of play and ability to beat a man, despite the side’s struggles under previous coach Jesse Marsch.
In 24 matches for Leeds this season, Gnonto has scored four goals and provided three assists.
Leeds are 16th in the Premier League, one point ahead of 18th-placed Leicester.
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