Leeds United’s reported ‘final decision’ from last January haunts them with Emiliano Martinez display

Add as preferred source on Google

Leeds United are out of the FA Cup but will feel hard done by after their 1-0 loss to Arsenal. The West Yorkshire side completely dominated their Premier League opposition in the first-half and should have been two or even three goals up by the break. 

Leeds were wasteful with their chances, but also came up against an inspired display from goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. 

The Argentine made several top saves, including a brilliant one-handed parry to deny Gjanni Alioski forcing Sokratis Papastathopoulos into an own goal. 

Arsenal came out inspired after the break, with Reiss Nelson bundling home the eventual winner. 

The fact Martinez was so impressive will not however surprise Leeds United’s hierarchy. A little under 12 months ago, Leeds were being heavily linked with signing the Gunner. 

Bailey Peacock-Farrell’s form was troubling whilst reserve stopper Jamal Blackman had broken his leg. It left Leeds short in goal and a new stopper was considered a priority for the Whites. 

As reported by the Daily Mail last January, Leeds were considering a loan swoop for the player despite being in talks with Real Madrid for Kiko Casilla. 

The report stated Leeds would make a ‘final decision’ over the next few days and they did. Just five days after the report regarding Martinez, Leeds snapped up their current number one. 

It is a shame that 12 months on, Martinez has come back to haunt Leeds United. But with Casilla turning his reputation around at Elland Road and Illan Meslier impressing last night, Leeds fans will remain happy with their current ‘keeper crop.