'I can't stop now' - Illan Meslier looks back on whirlwind year as Leeds United's number one goalkeeper

Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier. Pic: Getty

Illan Meslier insists he 'cannot stop now' after a whirlwind year as Leeds United's number one goalkeeper.

The 20-year-old shot stopper was handed his debut for the Whites last February at Hull City in the Championship amid difficult circumstances following Kiko Casilla's eight-match ban.

Meslier has refused to give up the gloves under Marcelo Bielsa since the trip to the KCOM stadium, having helped Leeds during the elongated promotion run-in.

He kept seven clean sheets in 10 games and conceded just four times as Leeds earned a spot in the Premier League after 16 years away.

The France Under-21s international has carried his place into the top flight this season after signing permanently in the summer and has impressed for Leeds when called upon.

A difficult showing at Arsenal last week was followed up by the claiming of an unwanted record at Wolves on Friday night, with Meslier becoming the youngest goalkeeper in Premier League history to score an own goal.

The Frenchman, though, says it has been a 12 months of huge progression as he continues to navigate the early stages of his career between the Elland Road posts.

“Big changes and big progression," Meslier reflected to LUTV on his time at Leeds so far.

“Very happy because one year ago I started my first game in the Championship and now I am at 23 games in the Premier League.

“Of course, it is good, I am happy, but I want to continue in this way because it is important for me.

“It is just the beginning of my career and I cannot stop now.

“I need to keep working, training but I am happy for the team because last year we were in the Championship and now we are in the Premier League.

“So, it is good progression for everyone.”

Asked about if he had a particular target in mind for the next 12 months, Meslier said: "I do not know, it is difficult.

“I try to find the best of me in every game, but it is true, it is not easy. But yes, I want to concede less goals of course.”