Exclusive: Leeds make Illan Meslier axe decision after Sunderland gaffe

Exclusive: Leeds make Illan Meslier axe decision after Sunderland gaffe

Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Transfer Correspondent AUTHORITY Former Sky Sports and ESPN FC correspondent who specialises in global recruitment, contract negotiations, and high-velocity transfer breaking news. FOCUS Exclusive reporting, domestic and international transfer markets, and elite-level insights. THE INSIGHT Pete utilises a Global Network of Industry Sources to deliver verified, first-to-market reporting. His “Deep-Lens” analysis connects the dots between boardroom strategy and pitch-level recruitment, providing a level of transfer clarity that goes beyond surface-level rumours.

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Leeds United have no plans to replace Illan Meslier after his mistake against Sunderland, sources have told Football Insider.

The 24-year-old failed to catch the ball in the dying embers of Leeds’ Championship fixture against Sunderland last Friday (4 October).

The mistake ultimately cost his team two points as the West Yorkshire giants drew 2-2 against the Black Cats.

Leeds seemingly had three points in the bag until that individual error, but sources tell Football Insider that Meslier still has the full backing of Daniel Farke.

The Whites have Karl Darlow as the number two, but despite his experience and quality Leeds will not drop Meslier.

The shot-stopper is expected to start the first game back after the international break as the club looks to fully back him.

Leeds United view Illan Meslier’s error as a ‘freak issue’

Even though the mistake was a costly one, the Whites are viewing it as a “freak issue” and not a long-term problem.

Meslier isn’t being judged based on one moment, which is why he is set to continue as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper for the foreseeable future.

The Frenchman has made 184 appearances since he joined the club, keeping 56 clean sheets.

Leeds United

The West Yorkshire giants currently sit fifth in the Championship heading into this international break.

Farke's side will return to action on Friday 18 October for a derby game against Sheffield United.

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