Andy Townsend says Leeds need to replace Marcelo Bielsa mainstay

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Andy Townsend has told Optus Sport’s Matchday Extra that Leeds need to sign a new goalkeeper to replace Illan Meslier – questioning whether Leeds can keep their top-tier status next term with the Frenchman between the sticks.

Meslier, 21, broke another record on Sunday afternoon – becoming the youngest goalkeeper in Premier League history to keep 10 clean sheets in a single season. He also has the most clean sheets under the age of 21, with eight.

Though he was largely untroubled on Sunday by Manchester United during a 0-0 draw, Meslier did palm a brilliant free-kick from Marcus Rashford over the bar with some style. At £5million, he has been a bargain for Leeds.

But Townsend disagrees. The ex-midfielder believes Leeds need to sign a new goalkeeper to replace France Under-21 stopper Meslier, as he questioned whether Leeds will survive next term with such a young player in goal.

“For me, I still have question marks about the goalkeeper,” Townsend said. “He’s a young boy, I think it is difficult having a young kid in between the posts for a team that are looking to maintain their Premier League status.”

TBR’s view – Townsend has got it all wrong

Just look at Meslier’s stats, in a side that are renowned for allowing opposing teams to come on to them. Despite conceding 50 goals this season, Leeds have scored the same amount and that says everything about the club’s style.

Meslier has made mistakes, but he has won matches all by himself. His save against John Lundstram in the 1-0 win over Sheffield United, his stop to deny Abdoulaye Doucoure at Everton, earned Leeds four points.

He is one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League and he is only going to get better. The only way he will continue to improve is if he continues to remain between the sticks at Elland Road. Townsend has got it wrong.