Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa has addressed the situation surrounding the selection Kiko Casilla, who was charged with using racist language earlier this week

The Spanish goalkeeper has denied the FA's charge that he racially abused Charlton Athletic forward Jonathan Leko in a game between the two sides back in September.

Casilla now awaits a personal hearing, with the minimum charge for such an offense being a six-game ban, which can be increased based upon aggravating factors.

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Earlier this week, Leeds released a statement indicating that Casilla had denied the allegation and would remain available for selection until a full decision was made.

The 33-year-old has been a key player for Marcelo Bielsa's side this season, starting every game in all competitions.

Speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post ahead of the game against Blackburn Rovers on Saturday, the Leeds boss was asked about the selection of the player following the charge.

He replied: "It is one institutional situation. The club is behind his case and for now, we don't have any news about him."

The Spaniard has helped the Whites to concede the fewest goals in the Championship this season and keep the most clean sheets.

A suspension for Casilla would likely mean that summer loan signing Illan Meslier, who has been the back-up goalkeeper this season, will step up to the first team.

The 19-year-old is yet to make an appearance for Leeds but featured 30 times for Ligue 2 side Lorient in the 2018/19 campaign–his debut season.

The Verdict

Bielsa's response is entirely predictable and the Leeds boss was always unlikely to provide much more insight than he has.

There is absolutely no place for racism in football and if Casilla is found guilty by the FA in his personal hearing, it is right that he should serve the appropriate punishment.

Losing the goalkeeper could be a huge blow to Leeds' promotion push and will pile some real pressure on teenage shot-stopper Meslier.

It will be interesting to see whether the club look to add a new goalkeeper in January if Casilla is banned or prefer to put faith in the Frenchman.