Leeds United winger Willy Gnonto spared by national team boss after another standout display
Leeds United forward Willy Gnonto was substituted after 73 minutes in Italy's 2-2 draw with France Under-21s on Friday afternoon.
The Whites winger played a part in Italy's opening goal, a well-worked move from the left-hand side, originating with Gnonto, which found its way to Chelsea's Cesare Casadei inside the penalty area who applied the finish.
Gli Azzurrini went two up shortly before the half-time break through Giuseppe Ambrosino, capping an accomplished and convincing first half.
Gnonto could have added a third and put the game beyond doubt just four minutes into the second half, but his attempt whistled just wide of the mark.
Italy were made to pay for their inability to kill the game when before the hour mark Rayan Cherki struck for the French to reduce their arrears. Valentin Atangana then added a second for the visitors at Stadio Carlo Castellani, completing the comeback.
On 73 minutes, Gnonto was replaced by Fabio Miretti in what appeared to be a tactical change, as opposed to one brought about due to an injury.
Italy host Ukraine's Under-21 side at Stadio Alberto Picco in La Spezia next Tuesday evening, in which Gnonto is also expected to play before returning to Thorp Arch in preparation for the resumption of Leeds' Championship schedule away to Swansea City.
Both Italy and France have qualified for next summer's Under-21 European Championships with Gnonto expected to feature at the tournament if he is not called up to Italy's senior squad for Nations League fixtures.