MOT View: Leeds mainstay proves summer bargain with masterclass in Chelsea defeat
There were few positives to take for Leeds United from the 3-1 defeat against Chelsea on Saturday evening.
Despite taking the lead at Stamford Bridge, the Whites never looked comfortable and it was the first time this season we can say they were easily beaten.
Robin Koch also went off injured, adding to the list of problems facing Marcelo Bielsa in the build-up to the West Ham clash on Friday.
The one major positive was Illan Meslier.
When Leeds made a mistake or looked open at the back, more times than not, he came to the rescue with numerous quality saves.
According to WyScout, the 20-year-old made five saves, four of those were reflex saves. On top of that, he also made a crucial interception.
Meslier is known for his distribution, and he proved his skill once again. The youngster completed 100% of his 22 short passes and only misplaced one of his five longer passes.
The double save from Timo Werner was definitely the highlight of his game, and he also frustrated the German star from point-blank range in the first half too.
It was a disappointing evening, but Meslier was one of the shining lights for sure.
Leeds and Victor Orta will still wonder how they managed to sign the young keeper for only £5million, and he has already repaid every single penny with his performances this season.
With his reintroduction into the French under-21 squad this season, he is well on his way to representing their senior side with a number of years in the Premier League ahead of him.
His first full season of football at Elland Road is coming in the Premier League, and it is benefitting him massively as he seems to improves every single week.
Long may it continue.
In other Leeds United news, Tyler Roberts reacts to controversial Saturday incident
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