Phil Hay is fully expecting Joe Rodon to return to Leeds United’s starting XI against Southampton.
Hay was speaking on the latest episode of the Square Ball Podcast, where he previewed Leeds’ trip to St. Mary’s and whether Daniel Farke will make any changes to his side.
Rodon missed last weekend’s 3-0 victory over Watford as he served a one-match ban following the red card he picked up in the 0-0 draw at Hull City a few days earlier.
Liam Cooper was the man who deputised for him in what was his first start since the opening day of the season after making a full recovery from his injury.
Captain Cooper was solid on his return to the side but his inclusion meant Leeds were playing with two left-footed centre-backs, which did hinder them at times.
Hay says Rodon will return to Leeds XI
With Rodon now back in contention for selection, Hay is fully expecting him to come straight back into the side given the form he was in prior to his suspension.
He said: “Now, yeah, actually, yes. He will come back in because it was a one game ban. I will be really, really surprised if he doesn’t. He has been terrific, I don’t think in this form you can leave Rodon out.”
Rodon simply has to come into the side against Southampton in order to provide Leeds better balance when playing out from the back down that right flank.
What’s more, Rodon was beginning to look excellent up until his ban, with his performance at Millwall and first hour at Hull City having been really assured.
Leeds have another busy week ahead and so Farke will undoubtedly be rotating his side at some point which will allow Cooper to start, but Rodon’s return should be a no brainer.
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