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“Top Level Answers” – Bielsa Leads The Praise About Leeds Youngster

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With Bailey Peacock-Farrell popping his boots over to Burnley during the summer transfer window, plenty of Leeds United fans raised their eyebrows when we brought in 19-year-old Lorient goalkeeper Illan Meslier.

The young French youth international had played regularly for the side, but slipped down the pecking order but it seemed a strange loan spell until news of the buy clause appeared.

Having waiting diligently for his chance, the goalkeeper got his shot as Kiko Casilla’s replacement in the FA Cup clash with Arsenal and he certainly took the opportunity to impress many, with a number of good saves being made on the day – but his distribution was certainly another asset that stood out.

Speaking to Leeds Live following the game, manager Marcelo Bielsa was certainly pleased with his showing.

“It was a great performance from him. It was a hard decision to take and Marcos Abad, our goalkeeper coach, he understood the decision was for Meslier to play tonight. Even if he hadn’t played well, all is going to be the same for him. The way he played is very positive for us looking at the future. When the team controlled the match he managed the ball well and when the team was controlled by the opponent he offered good, top level answers. Having one keeper Kiko also has some influence on Meslier because they share a lot of time together and because Kiko, he deserved to be a reference to one young keeper. The group of the three goalkeepers, Meslier, Kiko and Kamil Miazek plus Marcos Abad, they have made a very good group and work very well together.”

No doubt our Argentine gaffer now has no worries about throwing him in if Casilla’s issue with the Football Association sees him ruled out as many believe will happen given the allegations.

With a decision still to be made on whether we will pick him up permanently, he’s also answered that question for a lot of fans.

With talk of a possible replacement coming in for Kiko if the worst happens, I’m not sure we need to bother after that showing.

After Arsenal Do You Back Meslier To Step Up?

Need More Experience For Safety

Absolutely, Buy Him Now

Absolutely, Buy Him Now

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