Jesse Marsch has told Monday night’s press conference – as per Leeds Live – that Illan Meslier is already pushing to win his first senior cap for France. The Leeds goalkeeper kept a second successive clean sheet at Palace.
Meslier, 22, made seven saves for Leeds on Monday night – including a quick-fire double save to deny Wilfried Zaha with his feet, turning the ball round the post for a corner. The Frenchman was solid at the back for Leeds.
Costing Leeds just £5million in the summer of 2020, after initially joining on loan from Lorient in 2019, Meslier has sparkled for the Whites. He has 83 appearances for Leeds at senior level – incredible, for a goalkeeper at 22.
His 25th clean sheet for Leeds came on Monday night – and Marsch was full of praise for the France Under-21 star. The American even claimed that Meslier was on the cusp of breaking into France’s senior squad.
“He is the best young goalkeeper I have worked with. Hard to make big statements on a global scale. In the mix with their senior side. Can say his talent is big. Always trying to encourage him,” Marsch said.
“To be strong and confident as a decision-maker. Technique and tactical positioning is not my strength, but I know when they have a presence and make the right decisions. Did really well for the most part.”
Marsch on Meslier: Arguably, Leeds best player against Palace last night
There were some excellent performances. Luke Ayling had a real battle with Wilfried Zaha on Palace’s left. Kalvin Phillips was solid, albeit subdued after 90 minutes. Liam Cooper continued his return with a solid outing.
In attack, Raphinha and Jack Harrison worked hard. But only one player did everything he was asked of and that was Meslier. His seven saves, as per BBC Sport, means he has made the most saves in the league, with 125.
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