Karl Darlow produced another solid performance in goal
Leeds United were unlucky not to get anything from their game against Manchester City, who beat them 1-0 at Elland Road on Saturday night.
Manchester City winger Antoine Semenyo scored a late goal in a first half that was dominated by Leeds, who were all over the away side and should have taken the lead at home.
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The game was marred by controversy, with Leeds certain that referee Peter Banks should have awarded them a penalty for a handball, and Daniel Farke was even sent off for protesting too much after the final whistle.
However, Karl Darlow stood up again in a big game at Elland Road and made some fine saves to suggest that he still has a future at Leeds beyond the end of the season.
Karl Darlow is showing his value to Leeds
Karl Darlow has usurped Lucas Perri as the Leeds number one this season and is expected to be in goal for the rest of the Premier League season.
Leeds signed Perri as the first-choice goalkeeper last summer. However, the Brazilian goalkeeper struggled and has not played a league game since a 4-3 defeat at Newcastle United.
Darlow has not been flawless, but he has looked far more assured and steady in goal than the club’s big summer signing.
The Leeds defence has also looked more secure when the former Newcastle man has been in goal, which suggests the defenders trust him.
He made some brilliant saves against Manchester City after a fine performance in the 1-1 draw against Aston Villa last weekend.
It is hard to see how Perri gets back into the team for league games from now until the end of the season to prove his worth, given Darlow’s form.
Like last season, the former Newcastle goalkeeper seems certain to end the campaign as Leeds’ first-choice goalkeeper.
He deserves a new contract
As things stand, Darlow will be out of contract at the end of the season and could leave Leeds on a free transfer in the summer.
However, there is no reason for Leeds not to offer a new deal and extend his stay at Elland Road beyond the end of the ongoing season.
Leeds United badge Karl Darlow – Leeds United vs Manchester City Goalkeeper Stats
Individual performance breakdown against Manchester City
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Total Saves
Goals Prevented
Saves from Inside Box
Punches
Runs Out (Successful)
High Claims
Leeds are expected to be in the market for a new goalkeeper, and Perri’s future at the club is likely to come under the scanner at the end of the season.
However, Darlow has done enough to earn a new contract and continue at Leeds. The club cannot afford to let him go, given their goalkeeping uncertainty.
Even if Leeds sign a new goalkeeper, the former Newcastle man is far more likely to agree to be a second-choice again than Perri, who believes he deserves to be first choice.