Leeds United shot stopper Illan Meslier says he is enjoying a greater level of defensive protection under Whites boss Jesse Marsch.
Last season saw Meslier's goal peppered with chances, with the French keeper making the most saves of any goalkeeper in the Premier League. The 22-year-old's 166 saves ranked ahead of second placed keeper Aaron Ramsdale, who produced 147. Those numbers for Meslier were indicative of an almost sieve-like defence that Leeds played with last season.
However, pre-season has allowed Leeds boss Jesse Marsch time to work with his defenders to install a new system at the back, which will give Meslier greater protection. And it's one that Meslier feels will benefit both himself and Leeds as a whole.
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"Honestly, now the tactic with Jesse is good, it's better," said Meslier in the aftermath of Leeds' 1-0 pre-season defeat to Aston Villa.
"I feel more protection with my team mates and honestly today it was good. I had a lot of tackles and defensive actions from my team mates so yeah, I think it's positive for the future."
Meslier was on hand to produce a stunning double save at Suncorp Stadium against Villa, which saw him deny Philippe Coutinho from the spot. The Leeds keeper saved the Villa midfielder's initial penalty with a superb diving effort, before saving the Brazilian's follow-up with his feet.
It was a moment enjoyed by everyone in attendance at Suncorp, which is a stadium Meslier admits he was impressed by.
"The stadium was unbelievable," added Meslier.
"It's a great stadium. But like Jesse said, the pitch, it wasn't the same case. It's not the same as in England. But it doesn't matter. The atmosphere was good and we had a lot of fans here so it's always good for us.
"Yeah, I think it was a good stadium and we will see another good stadium against Crystal Palace so I can compare after that."
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