Joe Rodon, an on-loan defender, gave Leeds United a 2-1 victory over Plymouth on Saturday, November 11, leading the team to need to make a permanent deal for the defender.
After The Athletic journalist Phil Hay stated that the Yorkshire team could look into a permanent deal, despite Spurs’ demand for £50 million, Rodon demonstrated his value and imperiousness in the air in just one week. [The Square Ball, November 9, 2010].
His performance was praised by Leeds Live journalist Beren Cross, who claimed that he handled everything Plymouth sent into the Leeds box after the game.
Alongside captain Liam Cooper, Rodon was a pillar of the Leeds defence. The Welshman was frequently the more dominant of the two as he demonstrated his worth to Daniel Farke’s team, which may have enticed them to make a long-term deal.
He was simply too good for the opposition forwards to beat, as seen by his 100% success rate in ground combat out of four attempts and his 75% success rate in air play. [Sofascore score]
In addition, Rodon put on a strong display at the back with seven clearances, four tackles, two interceptions, and one blocked shot. His 117 passes also demonstrated how important he is to Farke’s method of creating and moving the ball out of defence.
Leeds may not be able to afford the £50 million price tag that Spurs chairman Daniel Levy placed on him, especially if they don’t make the playoffs this year, but he is proving his value to the city, and they may be inclined to make a major move in an effort to retain him at Elland Road the next season.
There will be no question that he is worth whatever the 49ers decide to pay for his transfer if he continues to put on performances like that one.