Sam Allardyce has disclosed that upon becoming Leeds United manager, he promptly removed Illan Meslier from his role as goalkeeper. Allardyce felt that continuing to play Meslier was detrimental to the player`s well-being and performance.
Tasked with managing the team for the final four Premier League matches of the 2022/23 season, Allardyce`s primary objective was to prevent the club`s relegation.
Despite Allardyce`s efforts, Leeds United was relegated. His first significant decision after taking charge was to replace Meslier with резервный goalkeeper Joel Robles for the remaining games.
Meslier had been responsible for several notable mistakes, a pattern that has continued this season as Leeds aims to return to the Premier League.
Speaking on the No Tippy Tappy Football Podcast, Allardyce explained his decision: “Dropped him? I didn`t even give him a game. I dropped him immediately.”
He continued, “After watching previous matches and consulting with individuals who regularly watched Leeds, the consensus was: `He`s a talented goalkeeper, but he`s currently in a crisis of confidence.`”
“Recognizing the goalkeeper and the striker as pivotal players, I immediately took him out of the team.”
Allardyce acknowledged Meslier`s negative reaction to being dropped, stating, “He didn`t react well, though that doesn`t particularly concern me. There was some sulking. As a manager, you must make difficult decisions.”
He concluded, “It was necessary because he appeared anxious as the regular goalkeeper. It seemed detrimental to his performance, potentially worsening his situation if he remained in the team, even if being benched was disappointing for him.”
This season, Meslier has committed three errors directly leading to goals, ranking him joint-second highest in the Championship for this unwanted statistic.
Leeds supporters have also questioned his role in several other goals conceded, particularly in a recent 2-2 draw against Swansea, where he faced heavy criticism for two goals allowed.
The mounting pressure has influenced current Leeds boss Daniel Farke, who has decided to replace Meslier with Karl Darlow for the upcoming match against Luton.
Farke confirmed, “I`ve made my decision and informed the goalkeepers. Karl Darlow will start on Saturday.”
“It was important to establish clarity early in the week, allowing Karl to fully focus on the game,” Farke added.
Darlow, formerly with Newcastle, has not played a league game for Leeds since December 2023.
