“100%” – Paul Robinson urges Farke to stand by Illan Meslier after ‘freak incident’

Illan Meslier, 24, committed a costly error in the 97th minute during Leeds United’s 2-2 draw with Sunderland on Friday, 5 October, allowing the home side to claim a point at the Stadium of Light.

Leeds had been on the verge of securing all three points in the away match before the mistake.

While Meslier has been criticized for his mistakes during his time at Elland Road, former goalkeeper Paul Robinson has backed manager Daniel Farke to stand by his goalkeeper.

Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, Robinson emphasized the importance of maintaining trust in Meslier.

“You absolutely don’t drop him,” Robinson stated. “You keep him in the team 100 per cent and build his confidence. These things happen—it’s part of the game.”

Robinson noted that Meslier has not been struggling overall, saying, “It’s not like he’s been delivering a string of bad performances.

He’s played nine games this season, keeping five clean sheets, which gives him a 56 per cent clean sheet record.

He’s recorded two clean sheets at home and three away. His form has been good. This was just a freak incident.”

Drawing on his own experience, Robinson added, “As someone who had a similar freak incident while playing for England, I know how it can affect a goalkeeper’s confidence. It’s important to support him.

His place in the team shouldn’t even be questioned—he’s a quality goalkeeper, and what happened was an unfortunate, isolated event.”

Despite the blunder, Meslier remains one of the top goalkeepers in the Championship, with over 100 Premier League appearances.

After the international break, Leeds will face Sheffield United, with only three points separating them from top-of-the-league Sunderland.

If given the chance to redeem himself, Meslier could play a key role for the Whites at Elland Road against the Blades.

It’s now up to Farke to show faith and select him again.