Daniel Farke eases Wilfried Gnonto back as Leeds manage fitness concerns

This following a 3-1 Premier League defeat to Nottingham Forest on Sunday.

Farke confirmed that winger Wilfried Gnonto is closing in on a full return after missing recent matches through injury and recovery. The Italian forward, who underwent minor hernia surgery after earlier calf problems, has completed two full weeks of training but was not risked for the City Ground clash.

"He was out for such a long time with his calf problems and then the hernia," Farke said. "We discussed bringing him as an option from the bench, but in the end decided not to take the risk. After such a long absence, it's like a little pre-season for him. Two more weeks of training will help him be fully ready."

Gnonto's last appearance came as a late substitute against Fulham on 13 September, and the 21-year-old is expected to be back in contention once the Premier League season resumes.

Leeds have also received encouraging updates on other squad members. Daniel James, who has not started since August, came off the bench in the 74th minute against Forest and has been deemed fit enough to join up with Wales for international duty. Farke confirmed that the winger is ready to start if required.

Club captain Ethan Ampadu is also expected to be available for Wales despite suffering a nasty cut to his right knee during the first half of the Forest match. The midfielder received lengthy treatment but completed the game. "He's fine," Farke added. "Sometimes adrenaline hides the pain, but he came through well."

Elsewhere, defender Sebastiaan Bornauw missed the match after picking up a shin knock in training, although he has featured infrequently this season, making just two appearances in Leeds' last seven league squads.

Farke and his staff now have two weeks to regroup and restore full fitness across the squad before Leeds return to action later this month, with several key players nearing full recovery at a crucial stage of their campaign.

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