Leeds United fans will wish they had a keeper of his stature right now.
Leeds United take on Derby County this evening and in doing so will face off against a former player in goalkeeper Scott Carson. The former England international joined the Leeds academy from Workington in 2002 and was swiftly into the first-team at Elland Road.
His career at the club did not last long however. He played just three games for the club before cash-strapped Leeds flogged him to Liverpool.
He is now at Derby, and has been for nearly three seasons, and is their regular starter. With the Leeds game this evening he was asked about his past at the club during the Derby press conference yesterday but was not dismissive of his links to Leeds:
“Not so much (a big deal) now. It’s a very long time ago since I was there.
“I think it’s more important for us as a club at the minute. It’s just another game we need to get three points in.”
Scott Carson of Derby County
He then went on to talk about the historic rivalry between the two sides but was again, fairly nonplussed about it all:
“I have heard a couple of stories of past games and things but not massively. Obviously Leeds had a good comeback the other day and that would have given them a lot of confidence but from now until the end of the season it is just about us.”
It is nearly 14 years since Carson exited Leeds, so his indifference can be understood. But Leeds fans will probably wish they had a player like the Derby stopper in their ranks today.
Carson is a reliable and experienced goalkeeper, who marshalls his defence well and brings confidence to the defensive unit.
Felix Wiedwald goalkeeper of Leeds United
Leeds have not had that luxury this season. Felix Wiedwald has been up and down since arriving, against Bristol City was certainly a down day. Andy Lonergan, brought back to West Yorkshire in the summer, has not inspired in his opportunities either.
If only Leeds had an experienced, former England international, between the sticks for them this season they might be a stronger defensive unit. Someone like Carson, or Rob Green anyone?
Hopefully the Leeds keeper tonight, whoever Heckingbottom goes with, can prove the doubters wrong.
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