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Oliver Jones

Javi Gracia told dropping Illan Meslier would be 'positive' for Leeds United after Fulham loss

Former Premier League midfielder Joe Cole has claimed he'd drop Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier 'for his own good' after his two errors against Fulham lead to their third straight Premier League defeat.

Among some fantastic saves in both the first and second halves, two glaring mistakes in dealing with Fulham crosses by the Frenchman allowed the Cottagers to secure all three points with a 2-1 win.

Harry Wilson broke the deadlock in the 58th minute when Meslier palmed out the ball into his path before Andreas Pereira rifled the ball into an empty net following a similar moment 14 minutes later.

READ MORE: Leeds United player ratings with Aaronson, McKennie and Rodrigo poor again in Fulham loss

"Without a doubt Gracia and his staff will be considering [dropping Meslier], that's without a doubt," Cole said on BT Sport after full-time. "I would. I'd take him out.

"For the lad's good, and for the team's good. I think it'd be a positive move because Rio [Ferdinand], you've played when goalies are not having it off behind you.

"It changes what you do as a centre-half, and that filters up the team. [Joel] Robles, you could probably get him in the team. Is he ready, is he mentally ready to come and take on the challenge?

"It's a big call, certainly, and personally I'd do it if I were in his [Gracia's] shoes."

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