Leeds goalkeeper Illan Meslier
Leeds employee Noel Whelan has been left extremely impressed by the durability of goalkeeper Illan Meslier, Football Insider report.
The Lowdown: Meslier’s recovery
Meslier has kept up his record of starting every Premier League game this season, despite suffering an injury against Wolves last month.
The 22-year-old, who has made the most saves in the Premier League this season, has featured against Southampton and Watford following the international break.
He was going to miss the win at Vicarage Road due to his hip issue, however, Jesse Marsch revealed after the win that Meslier made a ‘miraculous’ recovery 24 hours before the game to start.
The Latest: Whelan’s comments
Former Leeds striker Whelan, who is now an employee of the club, labelled Meslier as ‘an important player’ and hailed his mentality regarding that miracle recovery.
“He’s a really young, talented player.
“It’s good to see him hungry to play, no matter what the circumstances – and that’s the mentality with the young players all through this squad.
“Everyone wants to be a part of this because they know that Jesse Marsch will be taking stock ahead of next season.
“He’s such an important player for us, and it’s good to see him out there after that injury worry and getting a clean sheet.”
The Verdict: Fine for Palace?
Leeds aren’t in action now until April 25 when they travel to Crystal Palace, so the enforced break appears to have come at a good time for Meslier and the Whites.
Adam Forshaw missed the win at Watford with a calf strain, while Junior Firpo and Jamie Shackleton appear to be close to making a return to training.
Liam Cooper and Kalvin Phillips will also get the chance to build up their fitness with no game this weekend, so it does look as if Marsch could benefit from having no fixture this weekend.
In other news: Fabrizio Romano reveals big transfer blow for Leeds as key 21 y/o target now set to move elsewhere
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