'This guy... wow' - David James awestruck by 'raw' Leeds talent, praises 'aggressive' style

Former England goalkeeper David James has heaped praise on Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier.
Illan Meslier(Photo by Andy Rain / POOL / AFP)Illan Meslier(Photo by Andy Rain / POOL / AFP)
Illan Meslier(Photo by Andy Rain / POOL / AFP)

The 20-year-old Frenchman has made a big impression in his debut season in the Premier League, despite conceding 33 goals in 17 matches – the second-highest tally in the division so far.

Marcelo Bielsa has trusted him to play every minute of every top flight game to date, and he is the fifth-highest rated player to have played more than one game in his position this term, according to stats site Whoscored.com.

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Speaking on Sky Sports’ Football Show, James was asked about the quality of goalkeeping in the Premier League at present, and was quick to pick out Meslier as a shining light.

The pundit said: “You’ve got Alisson, who I think is one of the best, if not the best. The likes of Ederson as well – that’s a wonderful Brazilian challenge.

"I mention Meslier – this guy, wow!

"And when you look across the rest of Europe, when you look across the rest of the world, I think the Premier League are privileged in that they have some of the best, if not the best, out there at the moment.”

The ex-Liverpool stopper then went on to suggest that Meslier’s inexperience and relatively unorthodox style could make him an easy target for overzealous critics.

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"There are certain goalkeepers in the Premier League, Edouard Mendy and Meslier especially, when you see what they do, they’re aggressive.

"There’s a style to them which I define as raw – possibly not over-coached, if that sounds right.

"Unfortunately for them, there is a downside to this. Through experience I’ve been there. When you are slightly different in your approach or style, there will be mistakes, and because of that difference, it’s too easy for people to jump on the bandwagon and say you’re having a bad time.”Meslier was at fault in the buildup to Tottenham Hotspur’s opening goal in Leeds’ 3-0 defeat last weekend, misplacing a pass that subsequently led to Jose Mourinho’s men winning a penalty.

Bielsa admitted that the mistake was an “undeniable error” after the match, but also defended his player and praised his overarching form so far this season.