Back in April, we covered some quotes from Lucas Chevalier, currently the starting goalkeeper at Lille, where he spoke about Leeds United’s Illan Meslier.
That’s because the pair are currently the two goalkeepers fighting for a starting spot in France U21’s squad, with the Elland Road star the winner in that battle to date.
However, with Sam Allardyce deciding to place his faith in Joel Robles for Leeds’ last six games of the season, there might have been hope from Chevalier’s end of taking over, which he discussed with La Voix du Nord on Monday.
The 21-year-old is thrilled to be part of the squad for this summer’s U21 Euros, but is under no illusion that he could spend most of it on the bench.
That’s because Sylvain Ripoll, the manager, has always had faith in Meslier.
Chevalier explained: “He’s been there for three years and he’s an important part of the group. He’s one of the three captains. Despite the fact that I’ve come out of two great seasons as a professional and he didn’t finish the season with Leeds and that they went down, people think it’s balancing out. Honestly, I think he’ll play and he’s a senior member. I respect this decision.
“I talked about it with Illan, who is cool and not someone to boast. Nothing is impossible. I’m getting ready and I won’t be surprised to be second choice. He started the campaign and he will finish it. The coach has confidence in him and it’s not because he hasn’t played the last six games with Leeds that he will no longer count on him. We must not forget everything that was done before.”
Therefore, expect Leeds’ Illan Meslier to be between the sticks for France in Romania, unless Ripoll has a last minute change of heart.
