Ben Parker issues verdict on Klaesson display in Leeds U23 win

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Ben Parker has told LS11 that the performance of Kristoffer Klaesson for Leeds United’s under-23s in their win over Manchester United on Tuesday was probably the best we have seen from the goalkeeper since his arrival in the summer.

Klaesson has had a difficult time since moving to Elland Road. He arrived to act as cover for Illan Meslier. And he has been a consistent presence on the first-team bench this term.

Unfortunately, he has made several errors for the under-23s. So it was not a huge surprise that Leeds were linked with signing another goalkeeper during the January transfer window.

However, Klaesson has been improving in more recent weeks, culminating with his display against Manchester United at Elland Road on Tuesday.

Leeds were outstanding in the 3-0 victory. Some of the football they played going forward was frightening. And the icing on the cake came when 16-year-old Archie Gray scored from 35 yards out for their third.

But Leeds were also absolutely brilliant at the back also. And when the visitors did manage to get through Charlie Cresswell and Nohan Kenneh, Klaesson was able to produce a big save.

The Norwegian was superb at darting off his line and smothering the ball. And his distribution looked a lot better and a lot more assured. It was certainly a performance that will leave fans feeling a little bit better about the idea of the 21-year-old stepping in if required at any stage.

And Parker suggested that he has not seen a better display from the goalkeeper.

“Arguably the best we’ve seen him in a Leeds shirt, two really important saves, one in the first-half, one in the second. And it will do his confidence the world of good,” he told LS11.

Brighter signs for Klaesson after difficult start at Leeds

Klaesson has now conceded just one goal in his last three Premier League 2 appearances. And his performance on Tuesday indeed appeared to be his best yet for Leeds.

He is still developing. And Meslier would leave huge gloves to fill if he was ruled out at any stage. But the signs are now much more promising.

Hopefully, Klaesson is gearing for much better second season at Leeds.