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“His impact was REMARKABLE, which is why i highlight him, he embodies the MENTALITY and STYLE of play that FANS desire from a player”- Jermaine Beckford RAVES about one Leeds star who ‘made a HUGE difference’ in Sheffield United win
Leeds United’s Squad Depth Proves Crucial in Title Race
Leeds United’s squad strength once again played a key role as Daniel Farke’s side extended their lead at the top of the Championship, going five points clear of Sheffield United.
Just a week after Joe Rothwell and Pascal Struijk combined to inspire a dramatic comeback against Sunderland—Rothwell delivering two superb crosses to turn a 1-0 deficit in the 78th minute into a 2-1 victory by the 95th—Farke once again turned to his bench for answers.
Rothwell was introduced on the hour mark, joining the action alongside Mateo Joseph as Brenden Aaronson and Ilya Gruev made way.
However, it was Willy Gnonto who made the biggest impact.
The fact that Farke can call upon an Italy international—one who has attracted transfer bids exceeding £20 million in recent windows—highlights the impressive depth of his squad.
Jermaine Beckford Praises Willy Gnonto as Leeds Triumph Over Sheffield United
Leeds United legend Jermaine Beckford highlighted the impact of the team’s substitutes in their victory over Sheffield United, singling out Willy Gnonto and Joe Rothwell for their game-changing contributions.
“The substitutes, especially Gnonto but also Rothwell, made a huge difference,” Beckford said. “Gnonto’s impact was outstanding, and I have to highlight him in particular.
“It’s easy to come off the bench feeling frustrated about not starting, but every time he got the ball, he looked to make things happen—putting in crosses, taking shots. That’s the kind of mentality you want from your teammates when they come on.”
Gnonto proved to be a constant attacking threat in his brief 12-minute spell on the pitch.
The former Inter Milan talent nearly produced a Goal of the Season contender, only for Sheffield United goalkeeper Michael Cooper to make a stunning save, tipping his curling strike over the bar.
Beckford, a key part of Leeds’ League One title-winning side under Simon Grayson and the scorer of their famous FA Cup winner at Old Trafford in 2010, believes Leeds’ momentum in the title race will be tough to stop.
Junior Firpo Applauds Leeds’ Substitutes in Bramall Lane Comeback
“The second half was completely different from the first,” Beckford added. “We kept pushing and got the late goals. The belief in this team is sky-high—they trust each other, they know what they can do.
“They wear opponents down with relentless attacking play. And when the wide players tire, they bring on fresh ones who are just as good. It’s a nightmare for defenders.”
Junior Firpo was instrumental in Leeds’ comeback, equalizing after a brilliant assist from Dan James. His goal set the stage for Ao Tanaka’s superb header and Joel Piroe’s emphatic 90th-minute winner.
Firpo echoed Beckford’s sentiments, crediting the substitutes for their decisive influence.
“We had quality options off the bench,” Firpo said. “They changed the game when they came on, and we got exactly what we deserved.”
