Shay Given has told the Premier League’s coverage of Leeds United’s defeat to Arsenal that goalkeeper Illan Meslier might have gone to ground too soon – as Bukayo Saka lifted the ball into the roof of the net for his side’s winner.
In what was a tumultuous game becoming synonymous with Jesse Marsch’s side at Elland Road, Leeds were unlucky to come out of the game with nothing. Powercuts, controversial decisions and Patrick Bamford’s cameo all adding spice.
Despite all of Leeds’ chances – including Crysencio Summerville’s golden chance late on – Leeds came away with nothing. It is a fourth defeat in six Premier League games, also drawing with Everton and Aston Villa at Elland Road.
But the positivity, the identity and the willingness to play for Jesse Marsch is certainly there. However, Newcastle icon Given has suggested that for Arsenal’s goal, Meslier went to ground too early – for the Arsenal man’s fifth of 22-23.
“It is a good finish. But we talk about Meslier the goalkeeper, did he go down a bit early? But it’s a really powerful strike and from that distance, sometimes goalkeepers don’t have time to react,” Given said, on Sunday afternoon.
Given: Leeds goalkeeper Meslier might have gone to ground too soon
It is perhaps, somewhat surprising given Saka has earned praise for his finish. A clever finish, into the roof of the net. Arguably, the only place of the goal he could score. But Given has a point, if he stands tall, he palms it over the bar.
But instead, the £5million Frenchman – who has been excellent at times this season – does go to ground quickly. He can hardly be criticised for the split-moment decision, and given his form. But it is something to work on for Meslier.
Leeds now look to Thursday and a trip to the King Power to take on a struggling Leicester side. A real chance for the Whites to end a winless streak of six games. If we play anything like we did on Sunday, we will surely be favourites.
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