Italy international and recent Leeds United revelation Wilfried Gnonto has been to see an injury specialist this week after he limped off during the first half of the European qualifier against Malta on Sunday evening.
Gnonto had rolled over on his ankle during the game in Ta’ Qali, which led to his withdrawal from the match after 22 minutes of play.
On his return to England, the 19-year-old was sent to see specialist Dr Rajpal Brar who diagnosed a ‘common’ ankle issue, which can range in its severity.
Earlier in the week, Italian CT Roberto Mancini had reported that Gnonto had suffered a sprain, although did not know how long it would take him to return to action.
Speaking to MOT Leeds News, Dr Brar said that Gnonto has an ‘inversion’ sprain, which could range from a few days on the sidelines to over six weeks.
“It sounds like this was the most common type of ankle injury which is an inversion sprain where the ankle turns inwards. These can range from best case day to day to worse case being over six weeks out, but indications thus far are that this isn’t serious.”
Dr Brar did however confirm that Gnonto is a doubt to return in time to face Premier League leaders Arsenal on Saturday afternoon, although he should be in contention to return immediately afterwards.
Leeds have a meeting with Nottingham Forest scheduled for Tuesday and a visit from Crystal Palace the following weekend.