Leeds Utd urged to drop Illan Meslier after Fulham defeat as Joe Cole pleas for ‘positive move’

Illan Meslier is coming under pressure for his performances in goal for Leeds United and Joe Cole thinks he needs dropping for his own good.

Meslier has been Leeds’ first-choice goalkeeper for their three seasons back in the Premier League. During that time, he has sometimes attracted the attention of bigger clubs. However, his recent form has been questionable.

Leeds lost 2-1 to Fulham in Saturday’s early kick off, which followed a 5-1 defeat to Crystal Palace and a 6-1 drubbing at the hands of Liverpool.

Meslier flapped at a ball in the air for Fulham’s first goal just before Harry Wilson smashed the ball home. Fulham then went 2-0 up via Andreas Pereira after another instance of Meslier not covering himself in glory.

Leeds halved the deficit thanks to a Joao Palhinha own goal, but the damage was already done. In 16th place, their Premier League survival is at risk.

Something will need to change before the end of the season to stop their slide. And according to BT Sport pundit Cole, it could well be to drop Meslier for Joel Robles.

Cole said: “Without doubt, Gracia and his staff will be considering it. That’s without a doubt.

“I would. I would take him out. For the lad’s good and for the team’s good.

“I think it will be a positive move. Because when goalies are not having it behind you, it changes what you do as a centre-half. And it filters up the team.”

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Cole backs Robles to accept ‘challenge’ of stepping in for Illan Meslier

The former Chelsea midfielder continued: “Robles, you could probably get him in the team. Is he ready, is he mentally ready to come in and to take on the challenge?

“But it’s a big call, certainly. Personally, I would do it if I was in his shoes.”

Former Wigan and Everton goalkeeper Robles joined Leeds from Real Betis back in August to become Meslier’s main deputy.

He is yet to play in the Premier League since his return to English football. Indeed, his only two appearances for Leeds so far have come in the FA Cup and EFL Cup.

However, if Meslier needs to come out of the firing line for a bit, it might be time for the Spaniard to step up.

Despite the doubts about Meslier’s recent form, there have still been suggestions of him earning a move to a club like Man Utd.