‘One of the best’… Sam Allardyce has already given Daniel Farke key reason to move for Leeds United target

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Sam Allardyce had a short tenure at Leeds United but has already given Daniel Farke a transfer decision this summer.

Allardyce is clearly still fond of Leeds after his efforts weren’t enough to keep the Whites in the Premier League.

Years later though, Leeds are set for a return to the big time, and Allardyce might have influenced Leeds’ promotion bid.

Position	Team	Played MP	Won W	Drawn D	Lost L	For GF	Against GA	Diff GD	Points Pts
1	LeedsLeeds	43	26	13	4	83	29	54	91
2	BurnleyBurnley	43	25	16	2	59	14	45	91
3	Sheff UtdSheffield Utd	43	27	7	9	59	33	26	86

Farke has decisions to make this summer, and a lot revolves around Illan Meslier’s future with the club.

Well, Allardyce might have already painted the picture for the Leeds boss after what he said previously about a transfer target.

Sam Allardyce hailed Leeds United target Sam Johnstone in 2020

With Meslier having come under fire, Karl Darlow has stepped up to the plate and proved his worth.

Of course, the Frenchman’s future is in serious doubt because of this, as Meslier doesn’t want to be Leeds’ back-up.

The former Whites manager clearly saw failure in the goalkeeper, as Allardyce dropped a ‘very upset’ Meslier during his stint with the club.

If his view on goalkeepers is anything to go by, what he said about Leeds target Sam Johnstone in 2020 proves Farke must make a move.

The England international is now on Leeds’ radar and in 2020 produced a fine display against Liverpool to earn Allardyce’s West Brom a point at Anfield, in which the former Leeds boss heaped praise on Johnstone in the post-match press conference.

“He’s one of the best,” said Allardyce

“I think that’s pleasing to see as he’s one of the two most important people in your team.

“He’s right up there at the right level, and he’d already saved more shots than anybody before yesterday.

“We’ve got to keep that up, but know that Sam is there when needed and not make him too busy.”

READ MORE: Stoke City star sends warning to Leeds United and Daniel Farke as major factor considered

Johnstone’s experience will be perfect for Leeds after Meslier fiasco

The plan Leeds tried when they signed Meslier from Lorient in 2019 was to go for a young and upcoming keeper.

This approach hasn’t worked out of course, as the Frenchman looks to be on his way out after six seasons.

With this considered, the 49ers can’t make the same mistake, and going for someone experienced like Johnstone is certainly the way to go.

Judging by West Brom being in a relegation scrap this season, it doesn’t reflect too badly on Johnstone, as Leeds will likely be in the same scenario under Farke next season.

One statistic that stands out is Johnstone’s high claims, as Meslier struggled to command his box.

Johnstone at 32 won’t be a long-term option, but will no doubt fill the void of the unreliable Meslier.