Illan Meslier is one of the longest-serving players at Leeds United, but his tenure has been filled with uncertainty throughout.
This is from fans who have had enough of Meslier’s constant mistakes over his chapter with Leeds.
It got to a point last season where bafflement was shown at Daniel Farke’s desire to continue with the Frenchman in goal.
Meslier was ‘angry’ when he was eventually dropped, but the keeper’s character shone through as Meslier continued to support his teammates right to the end.
But now that interest is picking up in Meslier and Lucas Perri is joining Leeds, Meslier’s true feelings have come to the surface.
Alex Cairns reveals Illan Meslier’s stance at Leeds United
When he was getting settled in at Elland Road, Meslier had the promise of Mervyn Day, proving how Leeds had a special talent on their hands.
With the Frenchman’s future still being decided, it must be difficult for Meslier, knowing his number-one spot will be taken.
Leeds made goalkeeper a ‘critical’ priority this summer, and it seems like the 25-year-old knew where he stood.
Because of this, Meslier won’t be back-up to Perri, which sums up his fortunes in Yorkshire.
Fellow keeper in the squad, Alex Cairns, explained to Leeds Live how Meslier is truly feeling at the moment as the time is ticking on his next move.
“The absolute top (Meslier’s attitude). At the end of the day, he’s a professional footballer, he understands what happens in professional football,” Cairns said.
“Myself, Karl (Darlow) and Illan have all been through difficult parts in our career. And I can honestly say he’s handled it absolutely brilliantly. He’s come out firing. At the end of the day, there’s no getting away from the fact he’s a top goalkeeper.”
READ MORE: ‘To be honest’… Ilia Gruev gives raw reaction to Leeds United signing two midfielders
Mateo Joseph should take a leaf out of Meslier’s book at Leeds
Despite Meslier’s criticism, being dropped and being replaced ultimately, his attitude throughout has shown he’s the ultimate professional.
His mistakes were shockers, there is no denying that, but the Frenchman still played a pivotal part in the Whites getting promoted last season.
Despite the hierarchy saying Meslier almost cost Leeds promotion, he remains professional, which is extraordinary to see.
This is something that Mateo Joseph needs to learn, as Farke said Joseph won’t be joining the Germany training camp due to his desire to be sold.
Even though Meslier is looking to exit, he still does his job brilliantly, whereas Joseph needs a stern word after the way he’s handled his situation.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
