'Monumental errors' outweigh Meslier positivity

Goalkeeper Lucas Perri is the latest addition to Leeds United's defensive ranks and joins a pretty full-looking goalkeeping department.

Which means one thing. Someone will leave.

The new man comes expecting to be first choice and with some billing. Back in February, his coach at Lyon, Paulo Fonseca, called the Brazilian 'the strongest goalkeeper in the world' after an impressive display against Marseille.

At one stage, some might have felt that tag could, down the line, have been used for Illan Meslier. However he now looks the most obvious option to depart.

Sadly, for the Frenchman statistics such as becoming the youngest ever goalkeeper to keep 10 Premier League clean sheets, have been outweighed by numerous monumental errors over the past 12 months.

Regular listeners to our podcast 'Don't Go To Bed Just Yet' will know I have long defended the 25-year-old.

However, on episode 135 even my faith began to wobble following his display in the 3-3 draw at Hull. Daniel Farke's support, at that time, remained steadfast as it would be over two months before further errors against Swansea saw Karl Darlow given the nod at Kenilworth Road.

The Welshman performed well when called upon, but he will surely now find himself back in the unique supporting role of a back-up stopper.

Alex Cairns is the fourth currently on the books and, like Darlow is classed as a homegrown player. Add to that him being a local lad who isn't expecting to play and you have an ideal third choice.

If Meslier is the one to seek pastures new I would add just one thing…a hefty sell-on clause…just in case!

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