Dom Matteo has shared how new Leeds United defender Joe Rodon’s speed at the back has left him surprised – and likened the Tottenham centre-back and Pascal Struijk to himself and Rio Ferdinand.
Rodon, 26, has been superb for Leeds since we confirmed the loan signing of the ex-Swansea player. In 17 appearances for Leeds, Rodon has helped Leeds win a huge 11 games – keeping five clean sheets.
Daniel Farke seems to know his best side at the moment, and Rodon is one of the first names on the team sheet. There is a drop in quality at centre-back, in terms of cover – Liam Cooper, Charlie Cresswell.
Leeds icon Matteo discussed Rodon ahead of Saturday’s win over Blackburn and praised the defender for his form since his move to Elland Road – likening Rodon and Struijk to himself and Ferdinand.
“I’ve been really impressed. Rodon is so quick, rapid. When you’re that quick, you can get yourself out of trouble. The best defenders don’t get into trouble, it’s positional sense. He is getting better at that.
“When I played with Rio Ferdinand, we were always chatting, getting the position right. These two [Rodon and Struijk], are similar players. They read the game well, can both tackle, header,” he added.
“One criticism is that when the ball comes in, the strikers get a jump on us. They’ve got to be more physical and read the ball in. Small details,” Matteo said, on Leeds United’s Matchday Live programme.
Dom Matteo on how Leeds player Joe Rodon has impressed him
Rodon has been exceptional and the club have got to look at striking a permanent deal for the defender. Team Talk say Tottenham are open to a permanent sale of Rodon – but will want a £20m fee for him.
Hopefully, Rodon’s fee will go down towards the end of the season – as he approaches the final year of his Tottenham contract. It may allow Leeds to get a deal done, slightly on the cheaper side for Rodon.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
