Leeds United told they would have already won promotion if they had £4m Sheffield United star

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The criticism for Illan Meslier continues to come in with Daniel Farke left with a massive decision ahead of Saturday’s clash with Luton Town, over who starts in goal at Kenilworth Road.

A month ago, Leeds were five points clear and looking good for promotion. Troy Deeney said he thought Leeds might have wrapped it up by now, but six points from the next possible 15 has seen Leeds fall off.

Sheffield United and Burnley have both won 13 points in the same period. It sees Chris Wilder’s side go two clear at the top of the Championship, while Scott Parker’s Burnley are now level on points with Leeds.

Meslier has come in for huge criticism after his two disastrous mistakes against Swansea, costing Leeds more points and top spot. It has left Daniel Farke with a decision to make ahead of Luton on Saturday.

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Leeds would be promoted with £4m Sheffield United man

Last summer, Wilder struck a £4m deal to sign Michael Cooper for Sheffield United and the Blades giant has been superb. One of the best players in the entire Championship this season, he has been excellent.

The theory is that Leeds are a brilliant side, with a bad goalkeeper. Football League icon Sam Parkin told Benjamin Bloom’s YouTube that if Leeds had Cooper or James Trafford, they would be promoted by now.

“Probably [Leeds are the best with a poor goalkeeper]. If they had Michael Cooper or James Trafford, they’d probably be there now or almost there. It’s problematic for them, Farke has been incredibly loyal.”

What does Daniel Farke do when Leeds go to Luton Town?

Plenty have had their say. Aidy White says it is impossible for Farke to continue with Meslier now, given it is the third or fourth time the Frenchman has cost Leeds points in the race to win automatic promotion.

But Ross McCormack thinks Meslier starts because of the drop off to Karl Darlow. Farke has a big choice to make with promotion and his job depending on it – and Parkin has backed Darlow to take advantage.

“Does it put a huge amount of pressure on Darlow if he is to be thrown in? I’m not sure it does, I think he’s got a hell of a lot to gain. I’m sure he will be confident he can do better than Meslier. It’s fascinating.”

Leeds come into a tricky clash against a side scrapping in 23rd place to stay up, in front of a very hostile atmosphere. They have won three of the last five, with Luton welcoming back three key players of late.