Sky Sports pundits slammed as Illan Meslier analysis emerges after Leeds United v Sunderland
Paul Robinson has slammed Sky Sports pundits after suggesting Illan Meslier took his eye off the ball in Leeds United against Sunderland on Friday (4 October).
The French shot-stopper was the subject of an absolute howler as the sides drew 2-2 at the Stadium of Light, allowing a weak shot to bypass him into the back of the net with seconds left of the game.
Following the incident, Meslier was the main talking point from the thrilling Championship clash, with some pundits suggesting the goalkeeper was planning his next moves rather than focusing on the ball.
Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, Robinson said: “What the pundits said on Sky, I didn’t agree with at all. They said he was looking at his next move, looking to set up a counterattack. In the 97th minute, and you’re 2-1 up, you don’t look to do that.
“His eye wasn’t taken off the ball, he just got his feet and body shape in a mess. He was trying to take the ball to ground and kill time. If he catches that, goes to ground, everyone pushes up the pitch and he boots it. That’s it. The game’s over.
“What happened at the time was a Sunderland attacker was running straight at him. It wasn’t a case of being able to pick the ball up and fall straight in front. He was clearly trying to catch the ball and fall to the side of the Sunderland man. He just got it wrong.
“His spot in the team certainly shouldn’t be questioned. He’s a quality goalkeeper.”
Illan Meslier blunder explained after Leeds United v Sunderland
Meslier will be able to take solace from hearing a fellow goalkeeper, especially of Robinson’s calibre, expertise and experience, completely back him up following the unforgettable moment.
Leeds were just seconds away from claiming all three points from a huge away victory at the Stadium of Light, which would have seen them go level on points with the Black Cats near the top of the table.
However, the game is now in the past, and with another 37 league matches of the season to go, Meslier will have plenty of moments to right his wrongs in front of the Elland Road faithful.
In other Leeds United news, a pundit has reacted after missing an important surgery update at Elland Road.
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