Leeds United players surprised by Karl Darlow news from Thorp Arch

Karl Darlow's Leeds United teammates were "surprised" that the goalkeeper was called up to Wales' national team, according to The Athletic.

The news outlet reported on 10 September that Darlow's teammates only found out in the summer about his Welsh roots.

Craig Bellamy's side cruised to a 2-1 Victory against Montenegro on 9 September where Darlow made his national team debut and received plaudits from many of those watching.

Leeds United could give Karl Darlow a first-team shot this season

Although Illan Meslier is Leeds' first-choice goalkeeper, having an understudy with the ability of Darlow is always a big comfort.

Before joining Leeds last summer, the shot-stopper was with Newcastle and was once again second choice, sometimes even third.

Despite his lack of game time over the last few seasons, his Wales debut showed that there is still plenty of ability that can be put to good use.

There's no denying that Meslier is a stellar talent between the sticks but he has been known to make a fair few mistakes, with many of the fanbase split on the number one.

The Frenchman's contract is close to expiry and is also looming over the West Yorkshire outfit's heads, especially since it has been reported that the former Lorient man wants a release clause included in a new deal [Ben Jacobs, 7 September].

So, although Farke has a clear favourite in the Frenchman, if Darlow's international form keeps up at this rate, there's no reason why Leeds fans couldn't see the Welshman starting over Meslier at some point this term.

In other Leeds news, some early Burnley team news has emerged ahead of their clash.

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