Daniel Farke must keep Illan Meslier in the Leeds United starting XI despite a “freak incident” during the 2-2 draw with Sunderland, Paul Robinson has said.
The 24-year-old conceded a 97th-minute howler to share the points at the Stadium of Light on Friday 5 October, with Leeds just moments away from securing all three points from the away game.
Fans have become frustrated by the number of errors that Meslier has produced during his time at Elland Road, though Robinson has backed Farke to make the right choice and trust his shot-stopper.
Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, he said: “You certainly don’t drop him. You keep him in the team, 100 per cent, and give him confidence. It’s one of those things that happens.
“It’s not a string of bad performances and it’s not a goalkeeper who isn’t playing well. He’s played nine games this season and he’s kept five clean sheets, giving him a 56 per cent clean sheet record.
“Two home clean sheets, three away clean sheets. His form has been good. It was just one freak incident. You’re talking to someone who had a freak incident while playing for England. It knocked my confidence for a long time.
“For Meslier, get around him and support him. His place in the team isn’t even in question. He’s a quality goalkeeper. It was just an absolute freak occurrence.”
Daniel Farke to keep faith in Illan Meslier after Leeds United howler
Meslier is, without a doubt, one of the top goalkeepers in the Championship, with over 100 Championship appearances, but he can pull off a blunder.
With Sheffield United up next after the international break, the Whites have the opportunity to keep the chase on top-of-the-league Sunderland, separated only by three points.
If allowed to right his wrongs, Meslier is likely to be one of the main stars at Elland Road against the Blades. It is just on Farke’s shoulders to remain strong and pick him again.