Leeds United fans react to Illan Meslier from stands at Luton after being dropped
Due to a string of mistakes, Leeds United goalie Illan Meslier has been under fire in recent weeks.
On March 29, Meslier committed two crucial errors that led to the Whites’ 2-2 draw with Swansea City, and Harry Darling took advantage of his poor handling.
Zan Vipotnik then beat the Leeds goalkeeper with a stoppage-time effort even though he had a hand on the ball.
Daniel Farke was urged to bench his goalie following those errors, and Meslier was left off the field when the Whites drew with Luton on Saturday, April 5.
Leeds supporters spotted applauding Meslier at Luton
In his first games for the West Yorkshire powerhouses since an FA Cup loss to Millwall in February, Karl Darlow took Meslier’s place in the Whites’ starting lineup at Luton.
| Illan Meslier stats [FotMob] | Championship 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 39 |
| Goals conceded | 27 |
| Clean sheets | 21 |
| Saves | 65 |
Leeds’ promotion hopes have taken another major blow
The Elland Road team suffered yet another setback in their promotion bid at Kenilworth Road, as they were beaten to a 1-1 draw by relegation-threatened Luton, despite Farke starting Darlow in place of Meslier on Saturday.
On the fifteenth minute, Isaiah Jones gave the Hatters the lead, but Dan James’ outstanding play put Farke’s team back on equal terms.
Although Leeds only won one of their last six Championship games, they were unable to maintain that momentum and were unable to overcome Matt Bloomfield’s team in the second half. As a result, they have now lost their chance to qualify for automatic promotion.
Unfortunately for the Whites, Burnley’s 2-1 victory over play-off contenders Coventry coincided with their draw at Kenilworth Road. Later on Saturday, Sheffield United is expected to defeat a weak Oxford United.
Leeds, who appeared to be a good value for the Championship championship earlier this season, may now be headed to the playoffs.
