Micah Richards has backed new Leeds United boss Sam Allardyce's big selection call as he dropped out-of-form keeper Illan Meslier for his first game in charge at Manchester City. Frenchman Meslier's performances have come under the microscope in recent weeks as a series of costly errors have contributed to the avalanche of goals that his team conceded in April.
And after arriving this week on a rescue mission to steer Leeds clear of relegation, Allardyce immediately opted for a change between the sticks as he handed former Wigan Athletic keeper Joel Robles his first Premier League start for Leeds with Meslier dropping to the bench at the Etihad Stadium. Former City defender turned Sky Sports pundit Richards says Allardyce was right to make the change.
"If you look at Leeds and the back four, it's difficult because there are so many changes and when you are changing constantly and trying to find that solidity at the back, you are going to concede chances and his [Meslier's] form has not been great, he will tell you that himself," he said before the game. I think it was good to take him out for a couple of the games in the run-in and try and instill that confidence."
READ MORE: Sam Allardyce's blunt Illan Meslier assessment and stark reaction to Leeds United dropping
City ended up winning 2-1 thanks to two goals inside the opening half-hour from Ilkay Gundogan, with the Germany international missing the chance to complete his hat-trick when he hit the post with a penalty before Leeds pulled a goal back soon after through Rodrigo.
But Robles was not at fault for either City goal, and instead made a string of saves to prevent the defending champions running away with the game. Defeat means Leeds remain fourth-bottom of the table, outside the relegation zone on goal difference, but having played one game more than third-bottom Nottingham Forest and next-to-bottom Everton who are level with Allardyce's men on 30 points.
Everton travel to Brighton tomorrow tea-time, with Forest at home to basement side Southampton tomorrow evening.
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