Illan Meslier starred on his Leeds United debut between the sticks despite the FA Cup third-round defeat to Arsenal at The Emirates on Monday evening – and the French goalkeeper has sent a cheeky Instagram message to Eddie Nketiah.
Meslier, 19, was handed his first senior appearance for Leeds since joining the club on a season-long loan from Ligue 2 side Lorient. The France Under-20 international made a number of top saves, denying the likes of Alexandre Lacazette.
Reiss Nelson finally made the breakthrough in the second half from close range, which proved to be the only goal of the game. Arsenal striker Nketiah, who saw his Leeds loan cancelled earlier this month, was in attendance at The Emirates.
Meslier posted on Instagram after the match, underlining his delight at appearing for Leeds’ first team – where he has acted as back-up to Kiko Casilla so far this season. He was one of Leeds’ star performers during the Cup clash.
Nketiah, 20, saw his loan cancelled as he struggled to get the required game time with the Yorkshire club. He started just four of his 19 appearances, scoring five goals in all competitions for the Whites. It is believed Leeds will look for a replacement.
Nketiah responded to Meslier’s Instagram post by describing the goalkeeper’s performance as “incredible”. The two players played alongside eachother for the club’s under-23 side, and Meslier replied with a cheeky response to Nketiah after his exit.

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