Sky Sports pundit David Prutton has backed Illan Meslier to step up if first-choice keeper Kiko Casilla is handed a ban.

The Spaniard, who has struggled a lot in the past few months, could face a lengthy suspension if a panel find him guilty of using racist language at Jonathan Leko when the Whites faced Charlton earlier in the campaign.

If that does happen, Marcelo Bielsa will turn to Meslier, with the French youngster only featuring in one game this season - against Arsenal in the FA Cup.

So, there would be a lot of pressure on the teenager but Prutton told the Yorkshire Evening Post that he will see it as a great opportunity.

"It’s great if goalkeepers can play out from the back but Meslier should be looking at this situation as a potential opportunity to go and give Leeds a solid goalkeeper that is part of a solid back line and that doesn’t make mistakes.

"Meslier is still only 19 years old and if he is handed a chance he will have to show a sense of calm that belies his youthful years. But it’s set up perfectly for him if he goes out there."

The verdict

Even though it was only one game, the way Meslier coped at Arsenal was impressive, particularly on the ball.

So, Bielsa would have no qualms about throwing him into the team and many fans would argue that the youngster should have been given a chance in the past few weeks after Casilla's mistakes.

Ultimately, it will be interesting to see what happens with the number one but as Prutton Says, there will be confidence from those at the club that Meslier can deliver if needed.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.