Joe Rodon believes a chessboard can teach defenders almost as much as a training pitch. The Leeds United centre-back says the game is helping him think ahead, stay patient, and make better decisions.
The Wales international is one of the leading members of the Leeds side, starring under Daniel Farke ever since he arrived on loan. At £10m, Rodon is one of Farke’s best-ever signings as manager at Elland Road.
Joe Rodon says chess mirrors the art of defending
Rodon explained how chess has become part of his routine away from the pitch. The Leeds defender believes the game reflects the way centre-backs must think during matches.
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Speaking to Leeds United’s podcast, he said: “It’s a bit like being on the pitch, really. You’re always trying to think two or three steps ahead of the attacker. It keeps the brain moving.”
The comparison highlights a key part of defending. Centre-backs rarely rely only on reactions and instead try to anticipate what will happen next.
Rodon also pointed out how patience matters just as much as anticipation. He explained that rushing a move in chess usually ends badly and the same principle applies when defending.
Rodon’s chess mindset reflects Leeds United’s defensive discipline
Rodon has become a regular presence in the Leeds defence during the current campaign. His performances have helped give the back line stability.
The club’s Rodon match record shows he has played most of Leeds’ league games this season. Those matches include several clean sheets with Rodon in the team.
Leeds have also conceded fewer goals during games when Rodon plays. The Leeds goals conceded record reflects a defence that often looks more organised with him on the pitch.
Those numbers underline Rodon’s importance to the structure of the team. Leeds look more secure when the Wales international anchors the back line.
Rodon says chess keeps his mind sharp on Leeds away trips
Rodon explained that chess first became a regular hobby while travelling with the team. The defender said it is a great way to pass the time during long away trips.
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He also admitted that once he started playing he became determined to improve. Rodon said his addictive personality means he always wants to get better.
“I’ve got quite an addictive personality. Once I started playing, I just wanted to get better and better. It’s a great way to pass the time on away trips, but it’s also mental—you have to stay focused.”
The Leeds defender joked that he is still waiting for more teammates to challenge him. Rodon suggested some players might be reluctant to face him across the board.
He added that chess provides a more useful distraction than simply scrolling on a phone. The game forces players to stay focused from the first move to the last.
“In chess, if you rush a move, you’re finished. It’s the same as a defender. You can’t just dive in; you have to wait for the right moment to make your move.”
That focus is exactly what Rodon believes defenders need during matches. One rushed decision can change the outcome of a game.
Rodon’s explanation highlights how preparation for football can come from unexpected places. For Leeds, a defender who thinks several moves ahead is exactly what every back line needs.
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