Aidy White has issued his verdict on the performance of Kristoffer Klaesson as the goalkeeper made his full Leeds United debut on Monday.
Kristoffer Klaesson was a surprise inclusion in the Leeds side for the clash with Birmingham City. Of course, Illan Meslier is serving a suspension after being sent off at Preston North End on Boxing Day.
But Leeds were handed a further blow ahead of the game against Wayne Rooney’s side. Karl Darlow missed out after dislocating his thumb.
Aidy White praises Kristoffer Klaesson after full Leeds debut
It was a moment which would evoked memories of Will Huffer getting his debut for the Championship fixture against Bristol City back in 2018. And like Huffer, Klaesson managed to keep a clean sheet.
Leeds won 3-0. And the Norwegian – who did previously feature in the Premier League after Meslier sustained an injury during a game against Wolves – did not have a huge amount to do.
Nevertheless, speaking on BBC Radio Leeds (broadcast on 1/1; 17:30), Aidy White suggested that the 23-year-old can be very happy with his performance. And the FA Cup tie with Peterborough may actually present Klaesson with an opportunity.
“Klaesson had a couple of good involvements in terms of shots. He saved one in the first-half, difficult save to make, he did well with it, parried it out for a corner rather than straight at him. And then the Bacuna chance where he made himself massive. Hard to beat, and it put Bacuna off. Credit to him. I think his distribution for 95 percent of the game was very, very good. He looked composed, calm, especially for a debutant so he’s definitely put himself in the frame and puts pressure on Meslier,” he said.
“The question is if he does well at Peterborough, does the manager say I’ll give you a chance or does he put Meslier straight back in?
“We have to wait for next week and see how he performs again. But today he’s done well and he should be proud.”
Illan Meslier potentially leaving the door open
In truth, it is surely going to take a lot for Klaesson to put real pressure on Meslier.
The Frenchman has had a mixed season. Meslier obviously made unbelievable saves against both Leicester City and Sunderland. But there is a question mark over his distribution. And he really let the team down by getting sent off against Preston.
So there is a chance for someone to force their way into the starting lineup. It is a big blow for Darlow to not be able to take that opportunity.
For now, it is Klaesson who has the chance to stake a claim.
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