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Former EFL Winger Suggests Leeds United Must Replace Shaky Goalkeeper Illan Meslier Ahead of Premier League Promotion
The 24-year-old French goalkeeper, Illan Meslier, has been under the spotlight for his inconsistent performances and costly mistakes during his time at Leeds United. Despite the team’s strong position to gain promotion to the Premier League, the former EFL winger, Adrian Clarke, believes that Meslier’s unreliable displays may force the club to find a new number one goalkeeper should they secure top-flight status.
On Monday, against Sheffield United, an error by Meslier in the 14th minute of the game gave the Blades the lead, though Leeds ultimately won the match 3-1. Additionally, Meslier was also responsible for Leeds dropping points away at Sunderland earlier in the campaign with a last-minute blunder.
According to Clarke, Meslier has had a poor season between the sticks for the Yorkshire giants, making several nervous errors throughout the campaign. The former winger stressed that the French goalkeeper’s lack of reliability could be a significant concern if Leeds achieve promotion to the Premier League.
Meslier’s Premier League and Championship Statistics
| League | Season | Games | Clean Sheets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premier League | 2020-2021 | 35 | 11 |
| Premier League | 2021-2022 | 38 | 5 |
| Premier League | 2022-2023 | 34 | 5 |
| Championship | 2023-2024 | 46 | 21 |
| Championship | 2024-2025 | 34 | 20 |
Former Winger’s Assessment on Meslier’s Performances
“The ‘keeper, if they do go up, has to go”, Clarke said on What The EFL (14:55).
“I don’t want to bury him too much, but he has had a stinker of a season, hasn’t he?
“He has made too many nervy looking errors.
“He is capable of brilliance, but you cannot rely on him.”
In conclusion, Leeds United must carefully evaluate their goalkeeping options as they aim for Premier League promotion. The former EFL winger’s assessment of Meslier’s performances raises concerns, and the club may need to find a more reliable goalkeeper to solidify their defense in the top flight.
