Key Leeds United decision has already been backed up by Rafa Benitez

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Daniel Farke will be hoping he doesn’t have any more hiccups this season, as Leeds United fans are putting their full trust in his actions.

It will be telling to the 49ers if Leeds lose away at Luton Town on Saturday, as out of nowhere, it’s pivotal for Farke’s future.

Leeds fans will be expecting changes to the lineups, as Wilfried Gnonto could start for Leeds at Luton.

It’s deserved for Gnonto, whose goal against Swansea City should’ve been the winning goal if it wasn’t for Illan Meslier’s mistakes.

But this isn’t the only change Farke has considered, which has already been approved by Rafa Benitez.

Rafa Benitez has already approved Karl Darlow decision at Leeds United

Farke has made the bold decision to drop Meslier ahead of Luton.

This opens the door for Karl Darlow who is trusted at Leeds as the Whites boss has listened to the cries of axing Meslier.

If Darlow makes the right impression against Luton, this could see Meslier’s future in serious doubt at Leeds.

Well, after what Benitez said about Darlow in 2016, Meslier might as well start packing his bags now.

When at Newcastle, Darlow became the saint when he saved a crucial penalty in the Toon’s 1-0 win vs Crystal Palace.

This lead to former Newcastle boss Benitez heaping praise on Darlow in the post-match press conference.

“It was not just the penalty save. When the ball is in the air, he punches the ball, catches the ball,” Benitez said.

“It gave confidence to the team; it was important.

“He’s a hero, I’m really pleased for him.”

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Darlow decision at Leeds could be a masterclass after Benitez praise

The hope around the club is that Darlow will prove to be an inspired decision.

It’s clear the plan isn’t to keep the 34-year-old as a long-term option, but he could provide a real use in the Championship run-in.

His performances in a consistent run prove that he can be a solid option, as his last patch as a starter came through a loan spell at Hull City in 2022/23.

But more importantly, Benitez’s comments prove that Darlow is as professional as they come.

This is something Leeds need at this point of the season, and with the Spaniard suggesting Darlow does well in the air, already trumps what Meslier did against Swansea.

Meslier’s first mistake came from spilling a ball from a cross, and it seems like this is something Darlow uses to his strength.

Darlow impressed with Wales recently, so it’s not a complete risk for Farke to start the keeper, who has the chance to prove his worth.