Illan Meslier reveals reason for stoppage time brawl and Leeds United hopes in 2023 - YEP 1/1/23
The French stopper was involved in an altercation with Callum Wilson and Bruno Guimaraes during stoppage time of Leeds’ 0-0 draw against Newcastle
By Joe Donnohue
Meslier was initially pushed to the floor by Magpies forward
Wilson, which sparked a mass falling out. The Newcastle man perceived Meslier
to be wasting time over a goal kick as the hosts desperately sought a goal,
taking out his frustration on the 22-year-old. Upon getting back to his feet,
Meslier became involved in a shoving match with Newcastle’s Bruno Guimaraes.
The Brazilian midfielder took issue with Meslier’s gamesmanship and made his
feelings known to the towering goalkeeper as the pair grabbed fistfuls of each
other’s shirts.
However, the mild-mannered Meslier explained he could
understand their frustration, speaking to journalists after the final whistle:
“I think they were disappointed, they wanted to score, this point was enough
for us, I can understand this attitude.”
The Leeds custodian also explained that spirits were high in
the away dressing room after securing a hard-earned point.
"It's a good point because it's never easy to come
here. It's a really good team and we're happy because it was a strong
performance especially in defence with the clean sheet.
“Weather is maybe colder here but Newcastle play really good
football, really athletic [with] top players but we were really strong on
set-plays also.
"My foot, my right foot from the head of Schar, if not
when I go at the feet of Wood. I'm happy to help the team keep the clean
sheet,” he added, describing his favourite save of the contest.
Looking ahead to 2023, Meslier shared his hopes for the
remainder of the season, beginning with next week’s game against David Moyes’
West Ham United.
"I hope we can start well, we have an important game at
home to West Ham so if we can start with three points in 2023 it will be the
best way to continue and stay in the league.”
