Joe Rodon was the hero for Leeds against West Ham as his header proved to be the winning goal.
The Wales international netted his second Premier League goal of the season to ensure a late effort by Mateus Fernandes was nothing more than a consolation strike for the Hammers, and seal a 2-1 win for Leeds.
Joe Rodon was assisted by Sean Longstaff for his excellent header – and made sure to acknowledge his teammate after the final whistle.
Joe Rodon says Sean Longstaff is an “absolute player” after standout display against West Ham
Longstaff – one of the most creative players in the entire Premier League this season – has been superb since his £12m move from Newcastle in July, and Rodon made sure to acknowledge him.
When the Leeds No.8 told fans to “keep marching on together” in his Instagram post after the win, his teammate responded with “absolute player” in the comments section.
Pascal Struijk – who was dropped for Jaka Bijol – could also be seen to have ‘liked’ the post from Longstaff, who is already a popular figure at Elland Road just ten games into his Leeds career.
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It was an inspired display from the Geordie, who completed 24 passes, won five ground duels and also took 44 touches against West Ham.
Leeds fans must be delighted Sean Longstaff deal was pursued
The £12m signing of Longstaff almost never happened.
A story from The Athletic revealed that Leeds were searching for alternatives as Newcastle rejected up to three bids for the 27-year-old, despite him personally being keen on the move to Yorkshire.
Sean Longstaff in action for Leeds against Wolves
Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images
The Whites considered alternatives, but ultimately came back to the negotiating table to finally strike a £12m deal for Longstaff, which could rise to £15m with bonus payments.
With one goal and two assists in nine Premier League appearances from central midfield, Longstaff is proving to be better than the majority of Leeds fans expected him to be.