Joe Rodon has been an inspirational figure for Leeds so far this season.
The Wales international scored two Premier League goals in the first nine outings of the campaign to earn four points for Leeds, netting in a 2-2 draw against Bournemouth and a 2-1 win over West Ham while also marshalling the backline admirably from the centre of defence.
However, in the 4-1 win over Crystal Palace last time out, Daniel Farke opted to deploy Joe Rodon as a marauding defender, allowing the Welshman licence to push on down the right flank almost like a right-sided attacker.
It is a position the Leeds No.6 has never played before that victory over the Eagles, but by the sounds of what he’s now told The Athletic, it seems he wants to keep playing there.
Joe Rodon admits he loves playing out wide
When asked about his position against Crystal Palace, the 28-year-old said: “Me being on the right side allows me to show more of my ability to run and be in higher positions. If you watch the games, you see me more in the full-back position in the system.
“It allows me to show more things in my game. Being comfortable in wide areas, I love it.”
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Rodon was actually clocked running at a faster speed than the rapid Dan James during World Cup qualification with Wales, so he certainly has the speed required to be a threat on the flanks.
Jayden Bogle, who Everton want, is currently holding down the right wing-back spot, but if Rodon continues to impress when overlapping down that side, Farke may well consider using him there more often.
Joe Rodon tweak would open the door to more Leeds United action for Sebastiaan Bornauw
If Farke does opt to grant the £10m man Rodon his wish and field him out wide more often, it could see Sebastiaan Bornauw receive more playing time in the centre of defence.
Which player would you be happy for Leeds to sell in January to fund their transfer business? Let us know in the comments… 🤔💰
The likes of Joel Piroe and Willy Gnonto are struggling to force their way into Farke's plans.
The Belgian has only played two minutes of Premier League football since his £5.1m summer move from Wolfsburg, and is surely growing a bit frustrated by his lack of action.
However, putting Rodon on the right wing whenever Bogle may need a rest presents a chance for Bornauw – who FC Koln want to sign – to step into the starting XI.
Whatever happens, it is fantastic to see how many different tactical opportunities the 3-5-2 formation has opened up for Farke, who has truly turned this season around by tweaking the system.
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