Tragedy for Leeds, comedy for their rivals

Football returned to Elland Road last Saturday afternoon following the final international break of the season – a historically ominous time for Leeds United.

Some Leeds fans – burdened by memories of springs past – were warning of the 'Ides of March', even during the Whites' record-breaking February form.

By the end of that month, United were five points clear at the top of the Championship table, with third-placed Burnley seven points adrift. One month on and it is Sheffield United who lead the league, with the Clarets and Whites trailing two points behind.

United's Shakespearian March fixtures ended with Swansea at the weekend. It was a game that had all the makings of a tragedy for Leeds fans, a comedy for their rivals.

Illan Meslier has flattered to deceive during his time in Yorkshire. But despite threatening a redemption story by keeping out a penalty and making a couple of vital saves, he was back to being the pantomime villain by the end.

Unfortunately the Frenchman's undeniable potential is surpassed by his tendency to err. Spilling a simple catch from a corner and failing to save a speculative shot from a narrow angle, the Leeds goalkeeper fluffed his lines again when it mattered most.

Meslier is not solely responsible for Leeds' remarkable loss of form. The whole team seems to be lacking energy. But the goalkeeper's performances are affecting his team-mates. None more so than a clearly frustrated Joe Rodon.

In October I asked "can Leeds afford to keep waiting for him to improve?" In January I wrote "it feels like it is time to try someone else".

Daniel Farke has seven, maybe 10, games left to get Leeds promoted, but Meslier's mistakes have left him in an impossible position. To change goalkeeper, or not to change goalkeeper, that is now the question.

Find more from Adonis Storr at The Roaring Peacock