Tony Dorigo has claimed that Leeds United’s acquisition of Illan Meslier is still looking like a ‘bargain’ in spite of the youngster’s mistakes this season.
Whites boss Marcelo Bielsa showed a huge amount of faith in the Frenchman when he decided that a 20-year-old goalkeeper with no top-flight experience was ready to represent United on their long-awaited return to the Premier League.
And although Bielsa’s trust has been handsomely rewarded by the former Lorient stopper, Meslier, who turned 21 earlier this month, has made a number of high-profile errors in a Leeds shirt.
That being said, the Elland Road club only paid £5 million to sign him on a permanent basis last summer, after playing the second half of the season in helping Bielsa’s side win promotion back to the big time.
And Dorigo has reminded people that Meslier remains a ‘baby’ in goalkeeping terms and claims that he’ll continue to learn from whatever errors he makes.
He told LUTV: “You are quite right in remembering that he is just 21, which for a goalkeeper is a baby. They certainly mature later than an outfield player as it is about decision making and positioning.
“Yes, he has made mistakes, every player has but for a goalkeeper to do it, it is very difficult to then respond and play well. But he has done that time and time again and pulled off some very good saves as well. So £5m? Bit of a bargain that I think.”
There’s no doubt that Leeds have an absolute gem on their hands.
Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea have all spent mega money on goalkeepers in recent years, illustrating their value.
And considering this United lad cost a mere £5 million and has shown a huge amount of potential in this, one of the toughest leagues in world football, it’s safe to say he’s going to get much better.
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