Illan Meslier has told a France press conference – as per Beanyman Sports on YouTube – that the Leeds squad are happy with manager Javi Gracia and hinted that he is hoping the Spanish manager stays at Elland Road for a while.
Gracia replaced Jesse Marsch last month and he has since guided his side to seven points from four games in the Premier League. Solid wins over Southampton and Wolves, a good draw against Brighton and a 1-0 loss at Chelsea.
Yes, there was also the FA Cup defeat to Fulham – ending in a 2-0 defeat but even in that loss, Leeds played well. Gracia has added a balance in the way Leeds play. More control, defensive solidity, but still an attacking emphasis.
With Leeds securing a 4-2 win over Wolves on Saturday, the Whites have propelled themselves from the relegation zone to 14th place. But, there is still plenty to do to avoid the drop. Meslier spoke about life under new boss Gracia.
“Javi is a good manager. We like his idea because we play on the floor, play out from the back. Occupy space, score goals. We just need time with him. We are happy, we have hope, we hope we can continue with him,” Meslier said.
Illan Meslier says Leeds squad are happy with manager Javi Gracia
Rightly so. Leeds have been crying out for a manager that can combine the club’s attacking talent, the speed of the attack, but with a control and a defensive solidity. Yes, Leeds have conceded seven goals in Gracia’s five games.
But, they have reduced the number of chances against them. They are occupying the space, as Meslier says, in defensive zones. Under Jesse Marsch or Marcelo Bielsa, every time the opposition attacked, they could score.
Leeds have 11 Premier League games left. Matches against relegation rivals in Forest, Palace, Leicester, West Ham and Bournemouth. Crucial relegation encounters. But, tough games against Arsenal, Liverpool, Man City and Spurs.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
