Phil Hay believes Daniel Farke could replace Illan Meslier with Karl Darlow for Leeds United’s trip to Birmingham City.

Hay was speaking on the latest episode of the Square Ball Podcast, where he was previewing Leeds’ second game of the season in the West Midlands this afternoon.

Meslier has started the season as Farke’s number one, playing the majority of pre-season before being handed the nod for last weekend’s draw with Cardiff City.

That said, Meslier’s long-term future at Leeds is not guaranteed and he has been tipped to depart Elland Road this summer, despite no bids having yet been received.

As such, Leeds have brought in Darlow from Newcastle United who made his debut in the Carabao Cup victory over Shrewsbury Town on Wednesday.

Hay thinks Darlow could start ahead of Meslier today

Darlow looked a tad shaky with the ball at his feet against Shrewsbury on his debut but has already proven himself to be a top goalkeeper at this level.

Hay says that it is his ‘gut feeling’ that Darlow retains his spot in the starting XI at Birmingham, which would be a huge call by Farke.

Including the pre-season matches, Meslier has looked far more assured between the sticks in recent weeks after a dismal run of form at the end of last term which contributed to Leeds‘ relegation.

On the evidence seen so far, Meslier does seem better suited to the way Farke wants to play and so handing Darlow a start would be an interesting decision.

Either way, there is no doubt both are more than capable of doing a job at this level.