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“Illan Meslier will be replaced by…” – Daniel Farke names the goalkeeper set to start in place of Meslier against Luton Town.
Leeds manager Daniel Farke has confirmed that goalkeeper Karl Darlow will start in place of Illan Meslier for Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship match at Luton.
Meslier, who has been a regular starter for Leeds this season as Farke aims for a Premier League return, has faced criticism after a series of high-profile errors.
His latest mistake came in last week’s 2-2 draw against Swansea, which saw Sheffield United leapfrog Leeds to take the top spot in the table.
Farke explained: “I’m a big believer in having clarity on the goalkeeper position. I’ve made my decision and spoken to the goalkeepers. Karl will start on Saturday, and Illan will be on the bench.
“We all know Illan has had a difficult season. You have to be honest. Generally, with your number one goalkeeper, you’re a bit more cautious about making changes compared to outfield players.
If an outfield player has a couple of tough games, you can rotate a bit. But with a goalkeeper, it’s important not to change game-to-game, even after a few mistakes.”
Meslier, who is in his sixth season at Elland Road and closing in on 200 league appearances since joining on loan from Lorient in 2019, has come under increasing scrutiny from fans and pundits.
His recent errors, including a dropped cross that led to Swansea’s first equalizer and a questionable positioning for their stoppage-time goal, have intensified calls for a change in goal.
Other mistakes from Meslier this season, particularly against Sunderland and Hull, have also cost Leeds valuable points.
Farke added: “I made it clear last time we discussed this that professional football is about delivering good performances.
In recent weeks, we felt Illan could have done better in a few situations. Right now, it was a decision I had to make, and it’s also about protecting him a bit.
“The spotlight is on him, and he’s still young. The pressure is immense, and we have to shield him from that.”
Wales international Darlow, 34, who joined Leeds from Newcastle in July 2023, will make just his second league start for the club, with his previous appearance coming in December.
Leeds, who are aiming to bounce back against relegation-threatened Luton in Saturday’s early kick-off, are currently two points behind Sheffield United at the top of the table, while they sit level on points with third-placed Burnley, with seven games remaining.
