‘He’s been the difference’ – Kevin Davies claims transformed player has put Leeds on brink of PL
Former Premier League striker Kevin Davies has hailed Kiko Casilla as the architect of the success Leeds United have enjoyed this season.
The goalkeeper arrived on a free from Real Madrid last January but was heavily criticised after a string of mistakes, leading up to a calamitous error in the play-off semi-final second leg against Derby at Elland Road.
However, this season, he’s been part of an almost immaculate backline for Leeds.
Casilla has only conceded 10 goals in 21 games this season, helping Leeds to the best defensive record in the entire EFL.
Talking on Sky Sport’s live coverage on Tuesday night (7.15pm), host Scott Minto said there were big question marks over Casilla last season and that he had been “causing havoc” in the Leeds defence. He asked whether Leeds had now solved the crisis.
“Yes, that’s down to the shape they play with and without the ball,” Davies said.
“They’re hard to break down. I think he [Casilla] has been the difference in this run of wins and beyond, he’s pulling out all kinds of saves. He’s been outstanding.
“You’ve got a top keeper behind you it gives you every chance of being successful and going up.”
Casilla has been brilliant this season. He’s turned himself into the player Leeds fans thought they were getting when he arrived from Real Madrid.
He’s still got a clanger in him. He came charging out in the game against Huddersfield on Saturday but got away with it.
However, his shot-stopping and distribution is phenomenal and he’s curbed some of his very worst ‘going AWOL’ instincts.
He’s Premier League quality and one of the very big reasons why Leeds are doing so well this season. 12 clean sheets from 21 games in the league this season is a stat that tells its own story.
Leeds are now 11 points clear of third-placed Fulham, as they close in on half a season played.
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