Leeds United and Leicester City are set to clash on Friday night, pitting the Championship’s strongest defences against each other. However, Leeds goalkeeper Illan Meslier has a record that even the Foxes can’t top.
Enzo Maresca’s team has been dominating the promotion race, leading the table from the start. But as they prepare to face second-placed Leeds, they know that a win for the hosts could narrow the gap between the two clubs to just six points.
Daniel Farke’s squad has been on a winning streak since the start of the year, securing eight straight league victories for the first time since 1931. While their attacking prowess has been praised, their recent success has also been built on solid defensive performances. Despite losing key player Pascal Struijk to injury, the team’s defence has remained strong, with on-loan stopper Joe Rodon forming a formidable partnership with Ethan Ampadu.
Incredibly, Leeds has only conceded one Championship goal in 2024, and Meslier has outperformed his Leicester counterpart Mads Hermansen in clean sheets this season. Meslier has 15 shutouts from 31 appearances, while Hermansen has 11. If Meslier secures a 16th clean sheet on Friday night, it could boost Leeds’ push for the top spot. Both Leeds and Leicester have conceded only 26 league goals this season, and while Farke’s side excels in attack, their defensive strength will also play a crucial role in their final league position in May.
