Joe Rodon has shared what the biggest thing he noticed when he signed for Leeds United on loan was, with the centre-back now back at Elland Road on a permanent deal.
Had you asked many Leeds United fans who their number one transfer target for the summer window was, it is likely that many would have mentioned Joe Rodon within the first couple of names.
The Welshman arrived after a difficult time with Tottenham, but went on to become arguably Leeds’ best centre-back signing since Ben White in the year Leeds were last promoted. Rodon was exceptional, particularly alongside Ethan Ampadu during the second-half of last season.
Unsurprisingly, the 26-year-old had opportunities to remain in the Premier League, with Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna amongst those who were big fans of Rodon.
Joe Rodon shares the biggest thing he noticed about Leeds after signing on loan
But Rodon softened the blow of Leeds losing Archie Gray to Tottenham, with the defender signing permanently earlier this month. And it appears that the support of the fans at least played a part in his decision to return to Elland Road.
Speaking to LUTV, Rodon suggested that the initial impression supporters made on him has remained with him since.
“Yeah, I think that was probably the biggest thing I noticed when I first came through the doors,” he said.
“Last season, the support this club gets is, you know, it’s unbelievable, and I felt that from the first time I walked onto Elland Road and, yeah, it’s just something that has stuck with me ever since. Leeds took a chance on me when no one did and now I want to give everything back and take a chance on them.”
The impact defender deal may have on Whites’ summer transfer window
When the play-off final was lost and the speculation started to begin, many fans would have wondered how many of the key players would move on before the new campaign came around.
Gray has been sold, and he may not be the only important member of the squad to move on – there is plenty of time left in the window. But Rodon’s signing feels significant given how high his stock was after his year on loan.
He could have gone to the Premier League, and he would have been forgiven for doing so at this stage of his career; Rodon was arguably the best centre-back in the Championship last season.
But he feels that staying at Leeds – and signing permanently – is the best option for him, and that will certainly help convince future targets about joining the Whites.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
