Illan Meslier sets third Premier League record since February for Leeds United
Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier has set a third Premier League record in as many months after keeping another clean sheet against Manchester United.
The 21-year-old was unbeatable in goal yet again on Sunday evening, keeping his 10th clean sheet of the campaign.
By keeping the Man United attack at bay, Meslier became the youngest goalkeeper in Premier League history to record 10 shutouts.
Before this, the Frenchman also set records for most PL clean sheets in a single season by an U21 goalkeeper and most PL starts made in a single season by an U21 goalkeeper.
Former Arsenal and Everton striker Kevin Campbell has also recently waxed lyrical about the player.
He told Football Insider, “He is strong, a good shot-stopper and his handling is so good. That is what surprised me. A lot of stuff comes at him and he holds onto it or gives it a good push away.
“Nothing is dropping around him. I am really, really impressed.
“Leeds’ recruitment staff have done an exceptional job getting him in. He is one for the future and for now. Only 20? Wow. Brilliant signing.”
Taking over from Lloris?
His impressive performances at such a young age have already led to him being tipped as a future France no.1, according to Tony Cascarino.
In his column in the Times, he wrote, “As he continues to grow and develop his upper body strength, he will become an even more fearsome physical presence in the box.
“I think [we] are looking at the future No 1 for the French national team.”
Some may think it’s too early to say, but we for one, completely agree with this assessment.
Meslier’s been such a calm and composed figure even when things haven’t gone per plan.
At the start of the season, the 21-year-old was guilty of making silly errors that jeopardised his team’s chances of winning the game.
But, Marcelo Bielsa has stuck with the player and has truly been rewarded.
Meslier has been one of Leeds’ best players over the past few months and was once again outstanding against Manchester United on Sunday.
The 21-year-old made four saves and also helped the team break quickly, attempting a game-high 15 long balls – nine more than his opposite number Dean Henderson. [WhoScored]
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