Kiko Casilla has received praise for how he’s dealt with his FA charge of racist abuse against West Brom winger Jonathan Leko.

Leeds United first choice keeper Casilla served two of his eight suspended matches after being found guilty of using abusive language aimed at Leko, prior to the coronavirus outbreak prompting the suspension of the campaign.

Yet he’s been applauded for his response and mental strength to the episode by Leeds’ director of football Victor Orta.

Albion youngster Leko, who spent the first half of the season on loan at Championship rivals Charlton Athletic before suffering a season ending injury and returning to The Hawthorns, was playing for the Addicks against Leeds at The Valley in September when the pair clashed in the second half before the taking of a corner and the referee intervened.

Following Casilla punching the aforementioned corner kick clear, he was then heard uttering the abusive language for which he was charged.

Casilla denied the charge before the end of November and requested a hearing in front of an independent regulatory commission, but the charge was unanimously upheld. He was also charged £60,000 and ordered to attend an FA education programme.

In the meantime he’s been advising young deputy Ilan Meslier, Orta explains.

“Kiko arrived less time ago [than Pablo Hernandez],” Orta told EFE. “He has had adversities and has managed to overcome [them], he has known how to feel the colours of the club and interpret what this team is.

“I am also very proud because, with all the adversities he has suffered, he is still mentally very strong and helping a lot.

“Even with the current situation, he is helping Meslier, the young goalkeeper, after the sanction was received. The truth is I am very proud of both (Casilla and Hernandez) of them.”