Dominic Matteo has backed Wilfried Gnonto to shine against Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-finals, insisting he is a weapon to have.
Wilfried Gnonto had been itching for a move away from Leeds United for a few years now, but astonishingly, he has stuck around. A contract until 2028 does give the club leeway in holding on to the player, as they might be prepared to sell him in the summer for the right offer.
For now, the winger is rather useful in a way that could bring success to the team in the short term, as Leeds United are vying to reach the FA Cup final. Before they do that, the Elland Road outfit must get past Chelsea in the semi-finals, as Gnonto could play a key role.
Having started each of the three games before the quarter-finals, the Italian winger was a substitute in that game against West Ham. Former Leeds United star Dominic Matteo has now tipped the 22-year-old trickster to shine against Chelsea in the upcoming showdown, insisting he could be a weapon, with his comments appearing on Team Talk.
Matteo said: “I think he has been more of an impact player this season, and he’s probably been frustrated about that. I’ve met him at quite a few events and a few things we’ve worked on, and he’s a really good, really positive guy.
“He’s certainly got the ability, he’s got a lot of pace, and obviously, he’s an Italian international.
“But I think the fans are probably thinking, ‘Is he a starter at the moment? Probably not’.
“Is he on the bench, coming on, and making an impact? Yeah. When he has had his opportunities, he’s been really, really good. He’s very positive; he gets on the ball and drives it forward. As a defender, that’s the last thing you want: somebody’s got that pace and the ability – he’s a bit of a secret weapon.”
Gnonto can take advantage of Chelsea’s current plight, which has seen them lose five consecutive Premier League games heading into this FA Cup semi-final. There are obvious weaknesses for the Blues on the wings, something the Italian can exploit with his trickery and pace.
There is a high probability that Gnonto will start this semi-final on Sunday if Daniel Farke deems it necessary to make a change. Even if he does not name the Italian from the start, the 22-year-old trickster can still make an impact off the bench.
This game could be a good chance for the attacker to showcase his talents on a big stage and help the team reach the tournament final. Leeds United as a whole should be thinking about taking advantage of Chelsea’s situation in this semi-final and maintain their own good form, which has seen them move much clearer of the relegation zone.