Luke Ayling, Pascal Struijk & Stuart Dallas respond as Leeds United title-winner pens emotional goodbye | OneFootball

Leeds United favourites past and present sent messages to Illan Meslier after his emotional farewell.

Leeds confirmed the 26-year-old goalkeeper’s exit last week following the expiry of his contract, ending a seven-year stay that brought two Championship title medals and a spell as a Premier League regular under Marcelo Bielsa. The player said in an Instagram post on Friday that he had found a club and fanbase like no other after arriving in 2019, and thanked supporters and staff, adding that he is ready for a new challenge but that Leeds will always be part of him.

The Frenchman’s final seasons did not go as planned, he lost his place to Karl Darlow and did not make a first-team appearance last season, yet he remained popular in the dressing room.

Having been at the club longer than anyone in the current squad bar Pascal Struijk, he crossed paths with numerous Leeds favourites.

Luke Ayling wrote: “Be very proud of what you did at our club. You're a top top player and even better person my friend. All the best in the future.” Stuart Dallas added: “Absolute pleasure. Amazing times together. Best wishes for whatever is next.” Current vice-captain Pascal Struijk said: “It was a pleasure.”

Further tributes came from Josuha Guilavogui, who said he had believed in him from day one, and from Willy Gnonto, who called him a legend. Joel Piroe, Barry Douglas, Sebastiaan Bornauw and Dani van den Heuvel also sent good wishes.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk