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Karl Darlow's three appearances for Leeds this season have come in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup Leeds United boss Daniel Farke has confirmed he will start Karl Darlow in goal for Saturday's trip to Luton. Number one Illan Meslier has been ever-present in the Championship this season but the 25-year-old's error gifted Swansea their first equaliser in last Saturday's 2-2 draw. It was the latest in a series of costly mistakes from the Frenchman and led to calls from fans and pundits for Farke to make a change for the final seven games of the season as Leeds look to secure promotion back to the Premier League. Darlow, who joined Leeds from Newcastle in the summer of 2023, has not made a league appearance since 29 December that year. "Big believer to have clarity on the goalkeeper position - I have taken my decision and spoke to the goalkeepers, Karl will play on Saturday, Illan will be on the bench, " Farke said. "We all know Illan's had a difficult season so far, you have to be honest. In general, your number one you're a bit more careful to change than an outfield player. "If they [an outfield player] have one or two difficult games, you can rotate a bit. In the goalkeeper position it's important you don't change game-to-game, even after a few mistakes. "I made it quite clear, the last time we spoke about this topic, it's professional football and you have to deliver good performances and perform well. [In the] Last weeks we felt he could have done better in a few situations. Right now, it was a decision I feel I had to make and to protect him a little bit. "The camera and spotlight is on him, he's still a young man, the weight of the world is on his shoulders, and we have to protect him. " Saturday's draw with the Swans meant Leeds stayed in second place, two points behind leaders Sheffield United and are level on points with third-placed Burnley but with a superior goal difference. Stick or twist? How do Leeds solve Meslier muddle? Latest Leeds United news, analysis and fan views Follow Leeds United in the BBC Sport app Listen to the latest Don't Go To Bed Just Yet podcast Top-20 players ask Grand Slams for more prize money UK set to host 2035 Women's World Cup as only 'valid' bid Injured Arsenal defender Gabriel out for season The true story of Britain's biggest bullion heist How lockdown affected children's social development The device that is taking over people's kitchens Stacey Dooley explores Britain’s shoplifting epidemic Grand National pinstickers' guide to runners Football's new phrase book - modern language or just jargon? When Liverpool nearly missed out on Salah 'Reckless' tackle & 'offside' goal - were Liverpool-Everton officials wrong? 'That was for you, Keelan' - Grealish dedicates goal to late brother 'The Goose' chases golds before return to dental school 'Aston Villa bucked the trend in January - and are reaping rewards' Was this the best free-kick in Premier League history? Video Was this the best free-kick in Premier League history? 'A special player' - resurgent Elanga has Forest dreaming The world-leading British amateur chasing repeat win at Augusta What would be a good season for Tsunoda at Red Bull? Five things to look for in Champions Cup last 16 The next Neymar & 43-year-old strikers - Copa Libertadores set to begin 'LIV dozen will provide extra challenge to Mc Ilroy's Augusta ambitions' 'I know why Real appeal to Alexander-Arnold - I was tempted too' Fear & Gibson - the best friends who keep rivals close Life on the edge - GB freerider Bramwell chases Olympic dream What were the biggest moves of NFL free agency? Copyright © 2025 BBC. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.