Critics have rained down on Matthieu Epolo in recent weeks, to the point that Arnaud Bodart’s name has come up in the conversation. And Ivan Leko could seize the first excuse to give the former number 1 another chance…
Matthew Epolo carried Standard on his shoulders at the start of the season: taking advantage of Arnaud Bodart’s complicated situation, the former SL 16 goalkeeper started as a starter and put in a string of high-flying performances. Behind a very solid defense, he made numerous saves and signed 6 clean sheets.
But Epolo’s star gradually faded. As the Standard collective disintegrated, the big flaws of the young goalkeeper, who still has many aspects to polish in his game, were displayed… up to gross errors during the weeks preceding the November international break.
His big mistake against Saint-Trond, which did not cost a point but is worth a trudge appeal to the Belgian Union for refereeing fault, and his catastrophic performance against La Gantoise could tip the scales, and push Leko to relaunch Arnaud Bodart.
The former Rouches holder has in fact not left Standard next summer and is waiting for his time – or a transfer – in the shadows and the most complete discretion. A humble work to which Ivan Leko has already paid tribute, without taking action: Epolo was until now his number 1.
But according to information from Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri, often well introduced to Sclessin, next weekend, it is indeed Bodart who could start against Cercle de Bruges. The official reason: a late return of Epolo to training, he who was in selection with the U21s until Tuesday.
Case to be continued, but if Arnaud Bodart immediately returned to his best level, it might be difficult for Leko to reverse his decision later, at the risk of not being followed by the supporters. Only problem: in the medium term, Bodart could look for a transfer again…
