Sven Botman, Chris Wood react to Karl Darlow’s ‘unbelievable’ Leeds United message

Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow has taken to social media blown away by a remarkable season for the club, with several of his former teammates reacting to his message.

The Welshman made the move to Elland Road back in the summer of 2023, when he joined from Newcastle United.

Since then, he has largely had to settle for a back-up role in Daniel Farke‘s side, but that has changed recently.

A number of errors saw Leeds fans call for first-choice shot stopper Illan Meslier to be dropped, a change that Farke did eventually make.

That has now seen Darlow start the last six games for the Whites, helping them to a run of five straight wins and securing their automatic promotion from the Championship back to the Premier League.

Indeed, Leeds fans have quickly taken to Darlow with the 34-year-old having proven to be a reliable since stepping in between the posts, and he has been keen to pay tribute to that support.

Daniel Farke Leeds
Daniel Farke has guided Leeds to promotion (Credit Imago)

Karl Darlow reflects on last home outing of the season

On Monday (28 April), Leeds thrashed Bristol City 4-0 in their last home game at Elland Road of the season.

That allowed the club to then celebrate their promotion back to the Premier League in front of their own supporters, which Darlow clearly enjoyed.

Taking to Instagram to reflect on that win and the success of promotion, the goalkeeper wrote: “What a team! Signing off at home for the season in some style. Thanks for your unbelievable home support!”

Karl Darlow 2024/25 Championship statsTotal (from SofaScore)
Appearances6
Goals Conceded2
Goals Prevented0.74
Saves per Game1.5
Errors Leading to Shot0
Errors Leading to Goal0

In response, Newcastle centre-back Sven Botman and Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood – who both played with Darlow at St James’ Park – showed their support by liking the post.

Meanwhile, Luton Town goalkeeper Tim Krul, who is also a former Newcastle teammate of the Leeds star, commented on that post with two flame and a hands raised emoji.

Leeds United goalkeepers facing uncertain future

Football Insider Verdict

It is going to be interesting to see what happens with the goalkeeping options at Elland Road during the summer transfer window.

It is understood that Leeds are open to selling Meslier following his string of errors, and they may also have a decision to make over Darlow.

The Wales international is entering the final year of his contract in Yorkshire this summer, meaning it could be the club’s last chance to cash in on him.

But given Meslier may also be moved on, and with Darlow having performed well since stepping into the side, they may want some continuity to remain in the role at Elland Road.

With that in mind, it does seem as though a new contract for the 34-year-old is at least worth considering for the decision makes at Leeds.