Illan Meslier set for biggest test yet of Leeds United career

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Leeds United take on Cardiff City this weekend as they look to continue their march toward Premier League promotion.

It will undoubtedly be a tough game, against a side who came back from a 3-0 deficit to claim a 3-3 draw at Elland Road back in December. 

In that game, Leeds goalkeeper Kiko Casilla did not cover himself with glory against a tough aide and young stopper Illan Meslier might now be up for his biggest test yet. 

The talented Frenchman has started Leeds’ last two games and kept clean sheets against both Hull City and Huddersfield Town. 

However, Cardiff pose a different threat. Neil Harris’s side is very successful from set-pieces, an area Leeds have been prone to frailty this season. In fact, according to Wales Online, Cardiff’s tally of 19 goals from set-pieces is the best in the Championship.

It means Meslier can expect to be very busy whenever Cardiff have a corner-kick or free-kick in around the box. An imposing side physically, the 20-year-old will need to be brave to rise above the Bluebirds’ capabilities in the air. 

If he does, then another question mark can be checked off regarding his talent and that reported (Ouest France) £5 million permanent fee in the summer will look increasingly like a bargain Leeds cannot turn down.