Not only was it important that Leeds United secured a second win in a row on Saturday afternoon against Preston, but it was made all the more important because of Sheffield United’s loss.
It felt like a Pablo Hernandez vs Swansea City moment. Leeds winning again, a second successive win after the 1-0 away victory over Middlesbrough, ending a blip in form that had seen Leeds win one in six games.
But also because Sheffield United were beaten by rock-bottom Plymouth, their third consecutive defeat. It has opened up a five-point gap between the top two and Chris Wilder’s side down in third position.
Even Wilder conceded Sheffield United had “let it slip” when discussing the automatic promotion race. The Leeds players cannot have known for sure that Plymouth had taken the lead in the 88th minute.
Leeds United fans are loving what Joe Rodon did after full-time
However, the roar from the south stand on Saturday late on in Yorkshire suggested that Plymouth may have taken points off Sheffield United. Rodon was even seen trying to request the Sheffield United score.
His celebration at full-time was one that suggested he knew that Leeds had done more than just beat Preston, but also stretch their lead over Sheffield United. Rodon celebrated with the utter-most passion.
Reduced to kneeling, Rodon screamed into himself with clenched fist (as seen above). Leeds fans reacted to Rodon’s immediate celebration at full-time as Leeds place one foot in the Premier League this season.
Another responded to Rodon’s celebration by saying “I love him as much as he loves Leeds United.” There is no denying Rodon’s love for Leeds, and certainly his passion to get this team back where they belong.
One fan said “he’s class, I love him” and another said Rodon is “the reason I want to go up, I don’t want to lose him, Tanaka or Ampadu.” It comes after Tanaka was spotted crying after full-time at Middlesbrough.
One Leeds fan responded to Rodon’s celebration by saying: “He knows. He gets it. He’s Leeds. Simple,” while another said “he completely gets it, an absolute rock.” Another brilliant display on Saturday, too.
Joe Rodon’s stats for Leeds United in win over Preston
Commanding, authoritative, unbeatable. Just a few words that can be used to describe Rodon, not only on Saturday but all season. The Wales defender is a real shout for the club’s Player of the Season award.
He might even be slightly underrated. What he brings solely in his performances is exceptional, but he is a leader too and always requests the best of his teammates – making sure demands remain very high.
Joe Rodon’s stats for Leeds in win v Preston:
- 90 minutes played, 7.3 FotMob rating
- 59 touches, 47 successful passes, 50 attempted
- Five defensive actions, one tackle, three recoveries, four clearances
- Six duels won, only one lost (Leeds’ second-best behind Junior Firpo)
Rodon has faced adversity in his career, struggling at Tottenham and looking uncomfortable in France with Rennes. But at Leeds, he has found a home and next season, looks like he will be in the top tier.
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