Leeds United boss Daniel Farke speaks with former Newcastle goalkeeper Karl Darlow.
Former Newcastle United goalkeeper Karl Darlow looks set for a huge role in deciding the Championship title race after a key decision by Leeds United boss Daniel Farke.
The Whites have been at the top of the Championship table for the majority of the campaign, closely followed by Sheffield United and Burnley, as they aim for promotion back to the Premier League.
Leeds narrowly missed out on promotion back to the top flight at the first time of asking last season when they were beaten by Southampton in the Championship play-off final, with former Magpie Adam Armstrong scoring the winner past Illan Meslier.
The French goalkeeper has been the target of repeated criticism in recent years, with his mistakes costing Leeds vital points in big moments.
The most recent disappointment came in their 2-2 draw with Swansea City at the weekend, having twice led at Elland Road.
Meslier saved a first-half penalty, denying Josh Tymon from 12-yards out, but went from hero to villain with two horror moments in the second-half.
The 25-year-old dropped a straightforward cross from a corner straight into the path of Swansea defender Harry Darling who fired home from close range, despite there being no pressure on the Leeds keeper when claiming the cross.
Willy Gnonto scored to put Leeds back in front, before Zan Vipotnik scored in the dying minutes of injury time with a low drive into the bottom corner, with Whites' fans again questioning Meslier's involvement.
The result saw Leeds surrender top spot to Yorkshire rivals Sheffield United, who moved two points clear following their win over Coventry City.
There have been repeated calls for the Frenchman to be dropped, with Darlow an experienced deputy waiting in the wings.
The Wales international has made just seven appearances for Leeds since joining from the Magpies two seasons ago, with his last start in the league coming back in December 2023 and hasn't played a single minute in the Championship this season.
However, Farke has made a big call regarding the former Newcastle goalkeeper ahead of this weekend's trip to Luton Town.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Farke said: "I have taken my decision and spoken to the goalkeepers, Karl Darlow will play on Saturday. It's been important that we had clarity earlier in the week, so Karl could concentrate on this."