Jesse Marsch has praised goalkeeper Kristoffer Klaesson for his performance against Brisbane Roar on Thursday – as per Leeds Live – but says the Norwegian goalkeeper will be dropped for Sunday’s clash against Aston Villa.
Klaesson, 21, was one of only two players to play 90 minutes during Thursday’s 2-1 win over Brisbane Roar – along with defender Pascal Struijk. He could do very little with the goal, but he made a superb save in the second half.
Signed for £1.5million (Athletic), Klaesson only managed one senior appearance last season. It came off the bench against Wolves, performing admirably as Leeds produced a stunning comeback to win 3-2 at Molineux.
- Newcastle and Tottenham want Leeds star, but Elland Road is his best move
- Robin Koch an unsung hero at right-back in Leeds’ final games of 21/22
The Norwegian’s performances largely came in the Under-23 side – and at times, he was criticised. But speaking after a solid display on Thursday, Marsch was full of praise. However, he says Illan Meslier will play against Villa on Sunday.
“Kris has done a good job for us. Really good job since I’ve been here. We needed him against Wolves. He’s done well in the 23’s since I’ve been here, but Illan is our no.1 ‘keeper. He’s a big player for us. He’ll be ready Villa.”
Marsch has praised Leeds goalkeeper Klaesson but will be dropped
It was right that Marsch have Klaesson a run out against the Roar. Of the three games Leeds face in Australia, Roar are the weakest side – no disrespect to the A-League side. They gave Leeds a good game and should have got a draw.
But with Villa and then Crystal Palace on the horizon, Leeds are likely to be at full strength as Marsch starts to look to gel his new-look side. Meslier is crucial to that, given he is the no.1 choice. It is also right, that Klaesson is dropped.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
