Illan Meslier has told Leeds United’s official podcast that he “loves” playing out from the back under new Leeds United manager Daniel Farke – saying it is something he has missed since Marcelo Bielsa’s spell.
Meslier, 23, remained at Elland Road in the summer though many expected him to go. Leeds themselves may have even predicted a departure, given the signing of Karl Darlow for a bargain fee from Newcastle.
The France U21 man has started all five Championship games – even with Angus Kinnear claiming on The Square Ball podcast that Leeds rejected a fee above £20m for Meslier. Celta Vigo have been linked.
The goalkeeper was asked about playing out from the back under Farke and says he loves doing it – claiming that it is something he has missed, last playing in this manner during Marcelo Bielsa’s reign.
“Absolutely, I just love it. It is something I have missed since Marcelo left – but it is my style of play. I want to be a player, to help beat the press of the opponent. It is so satisfying to play the short.
“Sometimes it is difficult but when you get out, you can create an action. I hope we can keep going like this – when you enjoy this type of football, it can be unbelievable,” Meslier told the Leeds United pod.
Meslier loves Farke style; Something he missed since Bielsa spell
It makes sense that Leeds use Meslier to play out from the back. This season, Farke’s men are going to come up against a low block more often than not. We need to find overloads and using Meslier helps.
It allows the defence to push up high and the full-backs to pin the opposing wingers closer to their own goal. It often gets criticised, but his ability on the ball is excellent for a goalkeeper. He will be crucial.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
