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Matt Smith

Sam Allardyce praised for 'masterstroke' after making huge Leeds United selection decision

Sam Allardyce's first major decision in charge of Leeds United has been made, with out-of-form goalkeeper Ilian Meslier dropped for United's visit to Manchester City.

The 23-year-old has been replaced by Spanish shot-stopper Joel Robles, who faces a daunting task making his Premier League debut for the Whites against a frightening City attack.

Whilst Meslier's ball-playing ability had made him a regular on the United team sheet under Allardyce's predecessors Marcelo Bielsa, Jesse Marsch and Javi Gracia his frailty between the sticks has undoubtedly played a part in Leeds' spiral towards the drop zone. something which Allardyce has been appointed to halt.

READ MORE: LIVE updates from Manchester City vs Leeds United

However, Robles is not short of top-flight experience, having made over 70 appearances over spells with Wigan Athletic in 2013 and Everton between 2013 and 2018.

Such a big call has proven popular with Leeds fans, with Allardyce also bringing in Junior Firpo, Max Wober and Adam Forshaw into a much-changed side from the 4-1 defeat to Bournemouth.

Below is a taste of what Leeds fans had to say about 'Big Sam's' first team selection in charge of their club...

@EllandRoadGlory - That looks like a sensible line-up to me.

@FirstHud247 - What a masterstroke by Super Sam! Robles hope you can claim the number one jersey! Good luck.

@SirJamesNiner - Good team selection. Feels like a 4-5-1. Three central midfielders. I like it. Changing the goalkeeper - about time.

@TheRunningEduc1 - This line up looks good to me.

@erskine_gareth - Some big big calls here from Big Sam. Definitely went with tighter in midfield. Not sure about Rasmus @ CB. Tough on Koch. Going to be long afternoon.

@dlturner4 - Change in goal doesn't surprise me but Koch left out does. Rasmus or Ayling CB???. Extra man in midfield which should have happened 3 games ago.

@marksmith2112 - Ayling, Firpo and Kristensen - this could be interesting!!!!!!

@theremotehive - I’m hoping to eat my own words but why Bamford? Drop Meslier you have to do the same for the other side of the pitch. Defence looks worrying too. Fingers crossed.

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