Agent comes out fighting for his Leeds United client – Hits back against criticism

Leeds United took Illan Meslier on a loan deal from FC Lorient just days after allowing Bailey Peacock-Farrell to join Burnley on a permanent transfer.

Marcelo Bielsa hasn’t given the 19-year-old has an opportunity in any competitions this season as the Argentine has preferred experienced Kiko Casilla between the posts.

Last month, the Frenchman gave a lengthy interview to Ouest-France and stressed that he would rather be a back-up goalkeeper at Elland Road than being in a similar situation at the Ligue 2 side.

Lorient appointed Christophe Pelissier as their new manager in the summer and he made Meslier the second choice keeper, behind summer signing Paul Nardi.

Pelissier told Le Télégramme on Tuesday that he was “surprised and disappointed” by Meslier’s decision to join the Whites. He also suggested the footballer was taking the easy way out, rather than getting into a battle at Lorient.

Yvon Pouliquen, the teenager’s agent, has spoken to the same publication and responded to Pelissier’s comments made against his client.

“Illan was warned 48 hours before the start of the championship that he would be No. 2 this season,” Pouliquen told Le Télégramme.

“He did not choose to find a way around the difficulty, but on the contrary to increase it, by choosing to respond favourably to Leeds and Marcelo Bielsa.

“He continues his progression alongside a very good goalkeeping coach and a Spanish goalkeeper… And do not forget that he still belongs to FC Lorient!”