Farke loses the plot: Leeds United press conference was complete car crash
Daniel Farke’s staunch defence of Illan Meslier in his latest Leeds United press conference came across as delusional.
The Athletic journalist Beren Cross posted on X (9 January) from Farke’s pre-match conference after asking him a question about Meslier’s future in the team, following two high-profile errors which cost the Whites against Hull.
Fans will have had all their digits crossed that the United boss would’ve admitted Meslier needs to come out of the side, but were instead left with a bizarre barrage of praise for the underperforming Frenchman.
Farke said: “He was disappointed with [his] last performance. He is self-critical. I like this.
“He is a 24-year-old man, who came as teen – always loyal to [the] club, during interest in him.
“[He] stayed to pay something back and win that trust back – [he was] named as best goalkeeper in league last year.”
Daniel Farke risking Leeds United reputation on Illan Meslier
The more Farke backs Meslier to the hilt at Elland Road, the more he backs himself into a wall when it comes to the criticism which is bound to come both their ways if his errors continue to happen.
Claiming Meslier was the Championship’s goalkeeper last term is also slightly misplaced, given Leicester conceded fewer goals and he was level with West Brom’s Alex Palmer for regular-season clean sheets.
Furthermore, the 24-year-old’s “loyalty” to the Whites since signing under Marcelo Bielsa in 2019 doesn’t run entirely true either, given an interview he gave to RMC after United’s relegaton in 2023.
As quoted by Fabrizio Romano (11 June 2023), Meslier said “you can’t say I’m not interested in Chelsea” – casting further doubt on his willingness to stay the course had an offer from the Blues come in.
Alas, no offer arrived and Meslier remains at Thorp Arch – to the chagrin of many a Peacocks fan – and Farke’s comments suggest he’s also set to remain between the sticks for the rest of the season.
The Whites have a chance to tackle their Meslier-shaped goalkeeping problem long-term by heading into the market this month, and if this season ends like the last, every single finger will be pointed at Farke.
In other Leeds news, Farke also provided an update on five injured United players ahead of their FA Cup clash with Harrogate.
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