Adam Pope reacts immediately as Leeds United player nearly embarrassed v Derby
Adam Pope shared that Illan Meslier was “nearly fooled” by a wayward cross from Derby attacker Kayden Jackson in their Championship clash against Leeds United.
Jackson made his way down the left wing as he looked to make a cross into the box but a deflection sent it towards the net of Meslier who was wrong-footed, but fortunately for the Frenchman, it went wayward.
The game on 29 December ended 1-0 in Leeds’ favour with the Whites retaining their spot in the Championship table and beating Yorkshire rivals Sheffield United to first place heading into 2025.
Speaking live on BBC Radio Leeds (29 December, 18:18pm), Pope shared his thoughts on Derby’s best chance of the game.
“It nearly fooled Illan Meslier who was screaming at his players but that was nearly embarrassing but it would have been some amazingly good fortune for Derby if that had dropped in, he said.
“Oh dear, that’s beaten him hasn’t it, if that’s on target, that’s in”.
Illan Meslier was saved from yet another Leeds United mistake
If Jackson’s goal had gone in, it would have been one of the unluckiest things that could have happened to the Frenchman.
The ‘keeper has been under scrutiny at times this season as his performances haven’t always been up to scratch.
Meslier has had two major blunders already this season with the first coming against Sunderland back in October while the other came against Preston just over two weeks ago.
Despite his inconsistency for the Whites this term, that hasn’t stopped clubs such as Manchester United from asking questions about his future [TEAMtalk, 27 December].
Last term, he was on top form and could have perhaps even been called one of the Whites’ best players but this season, things have just been different.
And, while losing Meslier would be a big blow for Leeds, with the number of mistakes he’s evidently got in him, it could end up being a blessing in disguise for Daniel Farke and his men, if the opportunity arises, of course.
In other Leeds news, Farke’s side have been given a boost in their pursuit of one player ahead of the transfer window.
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