Leeds United midfielder Illan Meslier admits he ‘cannot be lazy’ following the arrival of Karl Darlow.
Illan Meslier has claimed Leeds United summer signing Karl Darlow has made him less “lazy” as his presence forces him to be more “consistent”.
Speaking on the Official Leeds United Podcast (15 September), the Frenchman praised Darlow’s experience and advice during training, with Meslier remaining as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Darlow made the switch from Newcastle to Elland Road in the summer for an undisclosed fee and has made just two appearances for the Whites in the League Cup.
Meslier said, as reported by Leeds United News: “It is good, to be honest. I think he makes me better each day. We have a good level in training, I like it because this guy has experience and he can give some advice. Consistent in training.
“Better preparation in training. It is never easy when someone arrives, but it is good because they are pushing – it forces you to be consistent when you’re tired, the weather is not good, you cannot be lazy.”
After Meslier’s poor campaign last season, it is reassuring to hear that he is taking advice from the experienced professionals at his disposal at Thorp Arch.
The Frenchman has had a decent start to the season, but with just one clean sheet in the league so far, there is certainly room for improvement.
Darlow will not hesitate to take his opportunity if Meslier’s form drops again, but having two quality goalkeepers in the squad is important as it ensures they both remain sharp and ready.
Having made just two appearances for his new side and no appearances in the Championship this season, Darlow may be disappointed at his start to life in West Yorkshire. The Athletic reported (6 September) that Leeds “anticipated” Meslier’s departure this season, suggesting that Darlow was brought in as a replacement.
Meslier remains at the club, however, and, for now, Darlow remains on the bench. But from Meslier’s comments, the pair seem to have struck up a good partnership and will hopefully push each other to perform in a Leeds shirt.
In other Leeds United news, Weston McKennie has shared a “second best” verdict about his time at the club.
