Illan Meslier reveals ‘brother’ Pascal Struijk as best Leeds teammate
Illan Meslier has revealed that Pascal Struijk is his “brother” and his favourite Leeds United teammate.
As quoted by the Yorkshire Evening Post (19 October), the French shot-stopper discussed their pair’s strong bond on and off the field since his move to Elland Road in 2020.
Both Meslier and Struijk have shared the pitch for all the Whites’ Championship minutes this season.
When asked about his favourite Elland Road teammate, Mesiler said: “Pascal Struijk, because he’s my brother from the beginning. [We have a] good relationship, I’m always here for him and he’s always here for me – top man.”
Bond
Having a strong relationship with anyone in a squad can only be a benefit for a club, especially when the players operate in a similar area on the pitch.
Daniel Farke has depended on both Meslier and Struijk heavily this season and the pair’s defensive excellence has helped Leeds to the joint-most clean sheets in the Championship with five, tied with second-place Ipswich Town.
Last season, they both struggled. The entire Leeds squad had very little to be happy about in their damned Premier League season, but the defence has dusted themselves off and proved highly valuable in the second division.
Their connection on the field is apparent and the centre-back has helped his goalkeeper with, as per FBRef, 15 tackles, 11 blocks and nine interceptions in the league this season. Meslier’s 66.7 per cent save percentage and conceding just 1.00 goals per 90 (joint-second-best in the Championship) has shown the Frenchman can return the defensive favour to Struijk.
Leeds fans will hope this partnership can continue all season, but Farke will not hesitate to drop either if they are not performing to their highest standard.
In other Leeds United news, David Prutton was wowed by an Elland Road star in his Sky Sports team of the season but has called for even more.