Jack Harrison has been quoted by BBC Live as saying that Illan Meslier is a “fantastic” goalkeeper with a “strong mentality” amid criticism in recent days for the Leeds United stopper – following Tuesday’s 1-1 draw with Leicester.
The Whites went into Tuesday’s clash against fellow strugglers Leicester after three straight losses and had to survive an early scare. Youri Tielemans’ gorgeous strike was cancelled out by VAR – to the delight of the home fans.
Leeds then went ahead. A gorgeous bit of play on the right flank from Harrison – who almost joined Leicester in the January window – saw him curl a perfect cross into Luis Sinisterra, who headed home his third goal in five games.
However, it was not to be. Leicester equalised through Jamie Vardy late on. Meslier made a number of important saves, including a wonderful double save late on – and Harrison was full of praise for his 23-year-old teammate.
“Meslier is a talented player. He’s young, he’s still learning. A fantastic goalkeeper. We’re all behind him. If he gets caught up in what people say it’s not ideal but he has a strong mentality. We’re a close-knit group,” Harrison said.
Harrison: Meslier a fantastic goalkeeper amid criticism for Leeds stopper
Meslier is a top, top goalkeeper. One with enormous potential. But, his form has been poor of late. The criticism that came his way was perhaps over the top, but it was deserved. Meslier was awful against Liverpool, and then Fulham.
But Gracia stuck loyal to Meslier and he repaid the Spanish gaffer on Tuesday night, making a number of important saves. The double save was the Meslier that Leeds fans know and love. After the draw, that clamour will reduce.
Leeds, meanwhile, have missed their best opportunity from their remaining six games to pick up three points. Next up is a tricky looking trip to Bournemouth, before Manchester City, Newcastle, West Ham and then Tottenham.
