Paul Robinson has backed Kiko Casilla to stay at Leeds United, despite being dealt a lengthy suspension for racism.
The goalkeeper was found guilty in February of racially abusing Charlton Athletic forward Jonathan Leko during a Championship fixture back in September.
The 33-year-old was handed an eight-match ban and fined £60,000, as well as being ordered to attend a face-to-face education session.
Casilla has since been linked with a move away from Elland Road, but former United keeper Robinson feels the Spaniard still has a lot to offer Marcelo Bielsa’s side.
“I think he’s still got time left at Leeds,” Robinson told MOT Leeds News.
“You look at who they’ve got there… Illan Meslier is still very young and is on trial.
“He’s been given a chance that he wouldn’t necessarily have got if it wasn’t for what happened to Casilla. And, unless they’re planning to replace Casilla I can’t see him leaving.
“If you’re going into the Premier League you need a very strong one and two, with a good number three as well. Leeds are going to have to add come the end of the season anyway, whether it’s a number one or a number one/two, or they bring in a third keeper to support the two who are there and let them fight it out for the number one spot.
“A lot will have to happen if Leeds are going to let him leave.”
Casilla’s contract at Leeds runs until 2023, although there have been some calls for the club to offload the keeper following his ban.
But former England number one Robinson believes United will likely retain his services beyond this season.
Robinson added: “I still think he’s a top-class goalkeeper. He’s been up and down in form, his indecision at times has let him down, his consistency has let him down.
“But he’s had a lot to deal with on and off the pitch. I still think he’s a top-class keeper. I thought he was a great signing when he arrived and I think a lot would have to happen in the market if Leeds are going to let him leave.”
