ITALY ARE GNON TOO STRONG IN ATTACK
HE is only 5ft 5in, but Leeds United’s Wilfried Gnonto has become Italy’s big hope as the Azzurri face England in Naples.
The winger was given his opportunity by Italy manager Roberto Mancini as a raw 18-year-old still learning his trade with FC Zurich.
Now, as the former Manchester City boss wrestles with injuries and loss of form among his forwards, Gnonto is the one shining light as Italy start the defence of their European title against Gareth Southgate’s side on Thursday night.
He was brought into the Italy squad for last June’s Finalissima game against Argentina at Wembley and, three days later, he made his debut against Germany, becoming his country’s youngest goalscorer at the age of 18.
Now a 19-year-old, he joined
Leeds on January deadline day for a bargain £4million.
He said: “Roberto Mancini was always encouraging the young players to try and play at the highest level and that was in my mind when Leeds were showing an interest in me. It inspired me to make the decision to join them.
“He had shown his trust in me and I love playing for my country. He helped give me confidence.”
Mancini is now creating a younger squad in the aftermath of the Azzurris’ startling failure to qualify for the World Cup finals a little more than a year after being crowned European champions.
But he admitted: “The problems up top are serious. We have some big questions. As for some of the Italian teams, there aren’t too many Italian players.
“But after what happened in the World Cup, we have regained our enthusiasm.”