Sport nationDan Farke Could Finally Drop Illan Meslier by Signing “Exceptional” Leeds Target Angus Gunn
Leeds United’s impressive start to the Championship season has been marred by goalkeeper Illan Meslier’s inconsistent form. Despite the team’s dominance, Meslier’s errors have cost Leeds crucial points, and manager Dan Farke may be considering a change. The French goalkeeper’s struggles have been evident, and his weakness in goalkeeping has been a liability for Leeds.
Meslier has underperformed as a shot-stopper, and his errors have directly led to goals. Last season, he let in 4.49 more goals than expected, based on the xG of the shots against him. Additionally, he made two errors that directly led to shots or goals for the opposition in his 44 matches during the regular season. This season, Meslier has already let in 1.47 more goals than expected in nine matches.
Leeds United head into the second international break of the 2024/25 campaign with only one defeat in nine matches in the Championship so far. However, they have failed to win their last two matches in the Championship. They battled from 1-0 down to draw 1-1 with Norwich City at Carrow Road before they conceded in the 97th minute to draw 2-2 with Sunderland at the Stadium of Light in their most recent game.
Meslier’s mistake for the late equaliser at the Stadium of Light was a significant blow to Leeds’ momentum. The goalkeeper allowed the ball to bounce and watched it spin back into his net, costing Leeds two valuable points. This error highlighted Meslier’s ongoing struggles and raised questions about his suitability as Leeds’ first-choice goalkeeper.
In contrast, Angus Gunn has been in outstanding form for Norwich City. The Scottish international has saved 71% of shots against his goal and made 0.9 successful run-outs per match. Gunn’s proactive approach and exceptional shot-stopping ability have made him a standout performer in the Championship.
Gunn’s statistics surpass Meslier’s in several key areas. Last season, Gunn prevented 4.55 goals for Norwich with his shot-stopping, while Meslier let in 4.49 more than expected. Additionally, Gunn’s 0.3 more successful run-outs per game could alleviate pressure on Leeds’ defense. Gunn’s impressive form has earned him praise from Joe Hart, who hailed him as “exceptional” earlier this year.
Leeds’ interest in Gunn is not new. The club previously targeted him in the summer of 2023, and Marcelo Bielsa also wanted to sign him from Southampton in 2021. Farke’s experience with Gunn at Norwich makes him an ideal candidate to replace Meslier.
With Gunn’s contract expiring at the end of the season, Leeds may have an opportunity to sign him in January. Farke could bring the Scottish international to Elland Road to provide competition for Meslier and potentially solidify Leeds’ promotion push.
Signing Gunn would provide a much-needed upgrade in goalkeeping and address Leeds’ concerns. The benefits of signing Gunn extend beyond his individual performance, as his presence would push Meslier to improve, and the competition for the starting spot could lead to better goalkeeping overall.
As Leeds seeks to return to the Premier League, securing a reliable goalkeeper is crucial. Angus Gunn’s exceptional form and proven Championship pedigree make him an attractive solution to Leeds’ goalkeeping concerns.
Gunn’s experience in the Championship has prepared him well for the demands of the league. He has been a key player for Norwich City, and his performances have earned him recognition as one of the top goalkeepers in the division.
Leeds United’s promotion bid relies heavily on securing consistent performances from their goalkeeper. With Meslier’s inconsistencies, Gunn’s arrival could provide the stability and reliability needed to push Leeds back into the Premier League.
In conclusion, Dan Farke’s consideration of Angus Gunn as a replacement for Illan Meslier could be the solution to Leeds United’s goalkeeping woes. Gunn’s exceptional form, proven Championship pedigree, and contract situation make him an attractive solution for Leeds.
The potential signing of Gunn would address Leeds’ goalkeeping concerns and provide a much-needed upgrade. As Leeds seeks to return to the Premier League, securing a reliable goalkeeper like Angus Gunn is crucial. With Gunn’s exceptional form and experience, Leeds United can strengthen their promotion bid and achieve their goal of returning to the top flight.
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