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Report: Jesse Marsch thinks Leeds United youngster can be amazing, he’s constantly challenging him behind the scenes

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Jesse Marsch has a host of exciting young talent to work with at Leeds United.

Many of these youngsters need to have their game time managed in order to maximise their development.

However, a report from The Athletic suggests Marsch is constantly challenging first-choice keeper Illan Meslier.

The report suggests that Marsch is always telling Meslier to show him why he can be ‘one of the best keepers of his generation’.

Meslier has been in the spotlight from a very young age, and risen to every challenge presented to him.

Leeds United v Wolverhampton Wanderers - Premier League
Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images

He broke into the first team at Lorient as an 18-year-old, helping the French side to a 6th place finish in France’s second tier.

This convinced Leeds to bring the young keeper in on loan to challenge Kiko Casilla between the sticks.

Meslier made a massive impression, conceding only four goals in his 10 league appearances.

Leeds made his loan deal permanent, and he’s been first choice at Elland Road ever since.

Marsch is constantly challenging Meslier

The 22-year-old was the youngest regular goalkeeper in the Premier League last season, keeping five clean sheets.

His title as youngest first-choice keeper has been stolen by Southampton’s Gavin Bazunu this season.

However, his performances are constantly improving, and he was considered ‘untouchable’ by Leeds in the summer.

There was interest from Tottenham, and Meslier could one day replace Hugo Lloris at both club and country level.

Meslier has only managed one clean sheet this season, and his shots saved percentage puts him in the middle of the pack.

Marsch needs to continue challenging Meslier to improve as the potential to be a world class keeper is clearly there.

Leeds United v Barnsley - Carabao Cup Second Round
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He’s confident in possession – a vital asset for modern goalkeepers – an attribute that was essential in a Marcelo Bielsa system.

Meslier is brave in one-one-one situations, and has the potential to pull off spectacular stops.

However, he’s sometimes beaten by more routine efforts, something that Marsch will be challenging Meslier to cut out of his game.

Leeds need to shore up their defence in order to start looking up the table.

Meslier’s continued improvement is going to be an important factor in that happening.