“Farke’s Questionable Team Selection Exposes Leeds’ Ongoing Goalkeeping Problem”
Leeds United’s 1-1 draw at Preston North End raised more questions than answers, as Daniel Farke’s team selection failed to inspire from the outset. With Sam Byram replacing Junior Firpo at left-back, the line-up felt weaker than the one that won at Blackburn Rovers.
Joel Piroe was largely anonymous once again, but the team’s biggest issue lies in goal. Despite limiting PNE to minimal clear-cut chances, Leeds were let down by another shaky performance between the posts. While criticism can be directed at several players, the goalkeeping situation continues to stand out as a glaring concern.
“Illan Meslier’s Near-Post Howler Exposes Leeds’ Goalkeeping Crisis and Piles Pressure on Defence”
Leeds United’s struggles between the posts were glaringly evident in their 1-1 draw at Preston, as Illan Meslier allowed Brad Potts’ tame near-post shot to sneak past him—the only real test he faced all afternoon.
Meslier’s poor shot-stopping has left Leeds’ defence under immense pressure, forcing them to play near-flawless games week after week to avoid conceding. Unlike the reliable goalkeepers at promotion rivals Sheffield United, Sunderland, and Burnley, Meslier seldom delivers the crucial saves needed to dig his teammates out of trouble.
With performances like this, Leeds may need to address their goalkeeping dilemma in January to keep their promotion hopes alive.
“Rennes Eye Move for Illan Meslier as Leeds Must Decide Whether to Cash In This January”
Reports suggest that Rennes are interested in Illan Meslier ahead of the January transfer window, and with just 18 months remaining on his deal, Leeds United may need to consider cashing in on the goalkeeper. Even recouping the £5 million they paid to sign him could represent good business given his current form.
While Daniel Farke will understandably want to avoid major disruption to his squad mid-season, upgrading the goalkeeper position is an opportunity too important to ignore. A reliable presence between the posts could be the key difference between securing automatic promotion or facing the uncertainty of the play-offs. With Rennes circling, the decision on Meslier’s future could define Leeds’ season.
“Daniel Farke Hints Illan Meslier Could’ve Done Better with Brad Potts’ Goal”
Leeds United boss Daniel Farke addressed the key moments in his side’s 1-1 draw with Preston North End, including missed chances by Brenden Aaronson and Patrick Bamford. While Bamford’s opportunity, in particular, should have been buried, Farke also didn’t shy away from commenting on Brad Potts’ goal.
When asked post-match whether Illan Meslier should have saved Potts’ tame near-post effort, Farke hinted at his disappointment, suggesting the goalkeeper could have done more to prevent the equalizer. With pressure mounting on Meslier amid growing transfer interest and ongoing criticism, Farke’s remarks underline the need for improvement in such crucial moments.
“Farke Admits Meslier Could’ve Done Better as Leeds Rue Missed Chances in Preston Draw”
Leeds United manager Daniel Farke acknowledged that Illan Meslier could have done more to prevent Brad Potts’ equalizer in the 1-1 draw at Preston North End. Speaking post-match, Farke said, “Illan had a chance to save it. It’s from six or seven yards, but they should not have been there anyway.”
Farke also lamented his side’s lack of clinical finishing, pointing to missed chances by Patrick Bamford and Brenden Aaronson. “Patrick was desperate to score. Happy he created this chance with his movement, same with Brenden. But the finish was not on the level he wants,” he added.
The manager highlighted improvements after halftime but admitted that failing to capitalize on key moments, combined with Preston’s efficiency, made it a tough afternoon for Leeds. As their away form continues to falter, Farke’s frustration reflects the growing pressure to turn dominance into results.