· April 3 2025, 21:30
**It was back in 2023 when Leeds United pounced to take Karl Darlow away from Newcastle United.**
Leeds United's regular goalkeeper Illan Meslier, was more error-prone than a freshly released Bethesda game, and we expected that Darlow, who had at times proven to be a reliable understudy at Newcastle, would soon usurp the Frenchman as Leeds' first-choice 'keeper.
That's not the way things have worked out for the 34-year-old and Darlow has made just seven appearances in all competitions since his move.
After a couple of howlers in his early outings, Darlow has hardly been trusted since.
Illan Meslier: Hands like empty crisp packets
Daniel Farke has been brutal with Illan Meslier
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However, Meslier has returned to his error-prone self lately and now Leeds boss Daniel Farke has made a big call ahead of a crunch tie against Luton on Saturday.
The German told reporters (via [The Shields Gazette](https://www.shieldsgazette.com/sport/football/newcastle-united/leeds-united-newcastle-united-goalkeeper-5066491)) that he has spoken to his goalkeepers ahead of the game and Meslier will be on the bench with Karl Darlow between the sticks.
> “I’m a big believer to have clarity on the goalkeeper position. I have taken my decision and spoken to the goalkeepers, Karl will play on Saturday, Illan will be on the bench. “We all know Illan’s had a difficult season so far, you have to be honest. In general, (with) your number one you’re a bit more careful to change than an outfield player.
>
> “If they (outfield players) have one or two difficult games, you can rotate a bit. In the goalkeeper position, it’s important you don’t change game-to-game, even after a few mistakes.”
Karl Darlow's performances for Leeds could define the rest of his career
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It's a massive call from the Leeds boss given Darlow hasn't played a single game in the Championship all season.
Leeds have fallen two points behind league leaders Sheffield United and it seems that Farke is doing anything he can to try and overturn that deficit.
Fingers crossed that former Magpie Darlow can do the business. It would be a horrible way to end his career, which it genuinely could if he doesn't perform to a decent standard when called upon.