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‘This guy, wow’: Sky Sports pundit impressed by ‘aggressive’ £5m Leeds ace
Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier has been praised by Sky Sports pundit and former England goalkeeper David James, who believes the Whites gem has been unfairly criticised in recent weeks.
The 20-year-old has made quite a name for himself since joining Leeds initially on loan before being signed permanently last summer, becoming the Premier League’s youngest first-choice goalkeeper.
Meslier, who reportedly cost the Whites , has been entrusted with the first-team gloves at Elland Road and has played every minute of his side’s league campaign so far.
Admittedly, it’s not exactly been plain sailing, with Leeds’ swashbuckling style of play sometimes proving a double-edged sword and leaving them vulnerable to opposition attacks.
Meslier has conceded 33 goals in 17 games this season, but as James said to Sky Sports’ The Football Show , it doesn’t really tell the full story.
“I mention Meslier – this guy, wow,” he said.
“There are certain goalkeepers in the Premier League, Edouard Mendy and Meslier especially, when you see what they do, they’re aggressive.
“There’s a style to them which I define as raw – possibly not over-coached, if that sounds right.
“When you are slightly different in your approach or style, there will be mistakes, and because of that difference, it’s too easy for people to jump on the bandwagon and say you’re having a bad time.”
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Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa has made it clear that he’s not changing his philosophy or tactics simply because some sections of the media are questioning his current approach – presumably that goes for team selection as well.
Considering Meslier is just 20, and also bearing in mind how many shots he’s had to face, he’s done really well so far this season, showing he’s more than capable of playing in the Premier League.
He should perhaps be judged at the end of a full first season in the top flight, but the signs so far are very promising and he’s already performing like an established goalkeeper – and it’s great to see a pundit go against the grain.