Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow has backed Craig Bellamy’s assessment of Joe Rodon ahead of Wales’ clash with England at Wembley.
Joe Rodon has been a colossus at the back for Leeds so far this season, capping his strong start to the season with a headed goal against Bournemouth.
The former Tottenham defender is one of a sizeable Leeds contingent in the Wales squad, which would have been bigger if Dan James had not been forced to pull out of the squad through injury.
Wales boss Craig Bellamy praised Rodon when he announced his squad for the games against England and Belgium, explaining that he had always believed the defender would make it in the Premier League.
Now, Darlow has backed Bellamy’s praise of the Leeds centre-back, explaining why he has become so important for both club and country.
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Karl Darlow praises Leeds United teammate Joe Rodon
Speaking in the press conference ahead of the game against England at Wembley, Darlow spoke highly of the Leeds defender after an impressive start to the season.
According to Darlow, his strong personal relationship with the defender has helped to improve their effectiveness for both club and country.
Darlow said: “The manager came out and said everything that needed to be said about Joe. He’s an incredible player. Like you say, he’s a leader at the back.
“We’ve got a very good rapport and we’ve played a lot of games together, again for club and country. So, I feel like we’ve got a nice balance with the way that we play and back each other up when need be.”
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Premier League stats highlight Joe Rodon’s importance to Leeds
Joe Rodon has been ever-present for Leeds this season to date, forming an impressive partnership with Pascal Struijk, and he grabbed his first Premier League goal against Bournemouth.
The Opta stats from his season highlight his importance to Farke’s side, as he has dominated at the back for Leeds.
Joe Rodon’s 25/26 Premier League stats:
- Played: 7
- Goals: 1
- Possession won: 17
- Clearances: 46
- Tackles: 5
- Interceptions: 8
- Blocks: 4
In his seven games, Rodon has won possession 17 times, with eight interceptions and five tackles. He has made 46 clearances, winning 10 ground duels and 26 aerial duels.
Farke will be keen for his key man to return from international duty injury-free as the Whites face an important run of games after the international break.
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