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News
Tono Dorigo claims Leeds 21-year-old has responded well to any mistakes
Despite coming under criticism during a couple of points in the season, Tony Dorigo has explained he’s been thoroughly impressed by Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier.
Meslier, who earns £16,500-a-week (), is the youngest first-choice goalkeeper in the Premier League this season.
The 21-year-old shot-stopper has for the majority of the campaign looked a reliable pair of gloves in net, keeping eight clean sheets in the league so far.
Unfortunately, a couple of errors have occurred during the season, including a particularly poor display recently in a defeat to Arsenal.
His distribution was poor on that day and he’s had a couple of hiccups to scare the backline, but overall it’s been a real success his first season in the top flight.
Leeds-supporting pundit Dorigo feels Meslier has shown real heart to bounce back from any public criticism and is a big fan of his.
“You’re quite right in remembering he is only 21, which for a goalkeeper is a baby because they certainly mature later than an outfield player,”
“It’s all about decision-making. I think especially with the way that we play with the ball at his feet is ultra-important.
“You can’t just stand there and be safe. You’ve got to try and get things going, play that centre-half role, at times. He’s taken it all in his stride.
“Yes, he’s made mistakes. Of course, every player has. For a goalkeeper to do it, it’s very difficult to respond back and play well. But he’s done that time and time again. £5million, bit of a bargain, I think.”
TBR’s View:
Meslier already looks like an established goalkeeper in the Premier League, which is why it’s a frightening prospect to picture how good he’ll be further down the line in another five years.
The Frenchman is such a commanding figure aerially from crosses into the boax and a great shot-stopper.
There are going to be a few inconsistent moments as he continues to learn and mature, but in reality Leeds would have to pay a lot of money to sign a goalkeeper of his ability.