Leeds key man Wilfried Gnonto emotionally hobbles off with ankle injury for Italy in huge relegation blow

LEEDS will be sweating over the fitness of star man Wilfried Gnonto.

That's after the forward went off injured in Italy's Euro qualifier against Malta.

Gnonto, 19, has developed into a key player for Leeds since his move from Zurich in September.

The former Inter Milan academy star has chipped in with four goals this season.

And his Lionel Messi-esque style has made Gnonto a smash hit with the Elland Road faithful.

However, Leeds risk being without their talismanic teen for Saturday's trip to Premier League leaders Arsenal.

Gnonto lined up for Italy in their Euro 2024 qualifier against Malta on Sunday, winning his 10th cap in the process.

Roberto Mancini's men stormed into a 20th minute lead through Mateo Retegui, and went on to win 2-0.

But moments later Retegui's goal, Gnonto was forced off the field after appearing to twist his ankle while dribbling past a defender.

The wing wizard looked to be in some pain as he bravely tried to hobble on.

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And Gnonto soon signalled to the bench that he could no longer continue.

The Leeds star limped off the pitch as Mancini watched on with concern.

But it will be club boss Javi Gracia who could be dealt the bigger blow.

Leeds are languishing in 14th place after just six wins this term.

They are only ONE points above the dreaded drop zone.

And to make matters worse, 18th-place West Ham still have a game in hand on them.

Gnonto will now be hoping he can spring back into action for next weekend's crunch game at the Emirates.

But it remains to be seen how long he remains in Yorkshire for, with Serie A giants Juventus reportedly plotting to bring him back to Italy this summer.

Gnonto may have options in England too, with Arsenal, Man City and Chelsea all admirers.