Illan Meslier talks about what he will do in training at Leeds ahead of the play-off final against Southampton

Although Leeds finished above Southampton in the regular season, there were only three points between them. Saints were also the only side to complete a league double over Leeds.

To come out on top at the third time of asking, Leeds will need their defense and Meslier to be on top of their game.

Only the top two scored more goals than Southampton during the season, while Leicester City were the only side to create and miss more big chances, showing just how strong they are in attack.

Meslier shares what he has to do ahead of Leeds vs Southampton

Based on those aforementioned stats, Meslier could be a busy man in the capital on Sunday afternoon.

The 24-year-old had a shocking end to the season and was statistically one of the worst goalkeepers to prevent goals in the Championship.

However, after his incredible save in the second leg to deny Josh Sargent, he should be full of confidence. And given how close this matchup looks, it may not be just 90 minutes that Meslier is needed.

Last season’s Championship play-off final between Coventry City and Luton Town went to penalties and it really wouldn’t be a surprise if they did it again this year.

In fact, pundits Ally McCoist and David Prutton have both backed Leeds to win in a shootout, and if that were to happen, it would almost certainly mean Meslier played a big part.

In an interview with Athletic ahead of Sunday’s game, Meslier said how he will prepare for the prospect of going to penalties.

He said: “To be honest, I do both (remember and note). It’s important to have both so you’re not just distracted by the sheet or the bottle. You can lose information when the player comes to take the penalty.

“We haven’t started yet. Norwich, I was ready for them. But tomorrow and during the week, I will have work here and at home, to analyze everything.”

What is Meslier’s record with Leeds?

Meslier will need to significantly improve his penalty save record in a Leeds shirt if Daniel Farke’s side emerge victorious from a penalty shoot-out.

Excluding the one shoot-out he was involved in for Leeds, Meslier saved just one of the 19 spot-kicks he faced, which came against West Ham United in March 2021. Jesse Lingard scored the rebound anyway.

That said, in the shootout that Meslier was involved in for Leeds against Fulham in 2021, he made one save to help his side to a 6-5 win.

At around 6ft5, Meslier should be an imposing figure between the sticks in such pressure situations and if he gets to penalties, he needs to use every inch he has.

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