Big risk starting Joel Robles for Leeds United despite Illan Meslier development – Sky Sports
We’re delighted to welcome former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson as our exclusive columnist as each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Leeds United…
Paul Robinson believes it’s a “big risk” starting Joel Robles despite Illan Meslier being at fault for Leeds United in recent weeks.
Meslier has been questioned of late after a couple of high-profile errors during Leeds’ defeats against Bournemouth and Fulham.
However, Robinson has questioned Robles’ experience despite the keeper now being in the latter stages of his career.
“I would question a change at this stage in the season,” Robinson exclusively told MOT Leeds News.
“If you look at where Robles is in his career and how many games he’s played at top-flight football. He’s in his early thirties. He’s a good goalkeeper. But you look at his record, he’s hardly played any first-team games for someone of his age.
“It’s a big risk putting him in.”
The Spaniard has featured just four times since arriving at the club in the summer, with Meslier being number one throughout the majority of the campaign.
The Frenchman’s future has been an area of speculation in recent weeks with The Times claiming (14 March) the 23-year-old is on Chelsea’s shortlist of keepers. It’s believed Leeds value Meslier at around £25million.
Up next for the Whites is a home fixture against Newcastle United before a trip to the London Stadium to face West Ham United.
In other Leeds United news, one former Premier League manager believes the Whites may just “scrape out of trouble” under new boss Allardyce.