Joe Rodon ‘takes swipe’ at Illan Meslier with message after Leeds win v Preston
Leeds retained their position at the top of the Championship table with a 2-1 win over Preston on Saturday afternoon.
A recent dip in form served as a warning for Daniel Farke and his players, who look to be back on track to put things right, sitting level on points with Burnley, five clear of Sheffield United.
The boss has had some big decisions to make of late, and dropping Illan Meslier to the bench for Karl Darlow was a bold move, but one that has paid off already.
Joe Rodon takes aim at Meslier
Although Farke has formed a strong squad that has pushed right at the top this term, one disappointing area has been between the sticks.
The boss seemed keen to stand by Meslier, but the French goalkeeper was making too many mistakes on a regular basis, often costing his side.
After blunders against Swansea saw the Whites drop points and suffer in their league position, Farke made the call to drop Meslier to the bench with Darlow taking his place in the side.
In all three games since, Darlow has kept his place in the team with the West Yorkshire outfit returning to the top.
Joe Rodon was one man who made his feelings to Meslier known, with disagreements on the pitch a regular occurrence.
However, it seems as though he is much more comfortable in the new set-up.
After Darlow took to Instagram to share photos from the win, Rodon commented on the post, saying: “Karlito”, showing his appreciation.
Leeds need to upgrade in the summer
There was a moment where it seemed as though Meslier could be the downfall of the season, but Farke bit the bullet at the right time, making the call to swap the goalkeepers around.
It’s a decision that has seemingly paid off with two goals conceded in the last three but more importantly, seven points gained.
| Player | Appearances | Goals Conceded | Clean Sheets |
| Meslier | 39 | 27 | 21 |
| Darlow | 3 | 2 | 1 |
Rodon was clearly not confident in front of his French teammate, but looks more assured now and was keen to show his appreciation for Darlow as a result.
That being said, regardless of the league Leeds find themselves in next season, a new goalkeeper has to be at the top of the priority list.
Meslier is clearly not up to the required levels, and with his teammates and supporters not having faith in his abilities, it’s a non-starter.
Darlow may have steadied the ship but at 34-years-old, it’s questionable whether he can be the long-term answer for Farke too.
Nick Pope is reportedly a name on the list of targets although if that’s where Leeds are aiming, it may well highlight the need for promotion in West Yorkshire.