‘Unfortunate’ – BBC pundit gutted for Leeds ace after what happened to him last night
Karl Darlow has struggled to oust Illan Meslier in the Leeds goal this season.
The Welshman has featured just three times in all competition for the Whites for a total of just 270 minutes as the Whites seek Premier League promotion.
However, his fortunes on the international stage have not been affected as he has started four of the nation’s last seven matches.
Darlow involved in ‘unfortunate’ scenes for Wales
Leeds ace Darlow started in the 3-1 win over Kazakhstan but conceded from an Askhat Tagybergan penalty.
BBC pundit and former Wales international Nia Jones shared her sympathy for the Whites star (BBC MOTD Wales, 20:17 pm), saying: “That is so unfortunate.
“Karl Darlow is such a big presence in that goal that he doesn’t go the right way but still almost keeps it out.”
Leeds United should keep Darlow around
Some supporters wanted Darlow to replace Meslier in the starting line-up after the Frenchman made several high-profile mistakes earlier in the season.
The veteran has already won the Championship title in the 2016/17 season and featured in the Premier League in his stint at Newcastle.
However, Daniel Farke trusted his number one and as a result, the former Magpies man is yet to feature in the league having to settle for a few cup appearances but that has not stopped him from starting for his country.
Darlow may be kept around at Elland Road in the summer given his vast experience and the fact that the Whites are interested in Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher.
Surely Meslier would not want to settle for a backup role and if the Irishman is brought in, would seek to leave for new pastures and to retain his spot as a starter.
If that scenario plays out, the Whites could do worse than having the 34-year-old in reserve in case their new man suffers an injury and is ruled out for a significant period.
Alternatively, if they keep faith with Meslier despite his error-prone nature, they should still keep the veteran around, in case his form dips again or he is ruled out at any point.
Darlow has shown that he can step in and still keep the Peacocks solid at the back and his presence is beneficial to the squad and to keep the starter on his toes.
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