It is difficult to find a Leeds United player who has had a better start to the Premier League season than Joe Rodon. But what is even more remarkable, is that he entered the season with doubts.
Back in the summer, Joe Rodon told Leeds Live that he had a “point to prove” in the Premier League. His previous experience of England’s top tier came with Tottenham under Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte.
He lacked the game time to get any real rhythm, and was ultimately loaned out to Rennes and then to Leeds in 2023. Since his arrival on loan, Rodon has clocked up 107 appearances for Daniel Farke’s men.
A true representation of first name on the team sheet, Rodon has proved to be a bargain at just £10m. On Sunday, Troy Deeney picked Rodon in his BBC Sport Team of the Week alongside Brenden Aaronson.
Sky Sports pundit Troy Deeney
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Troy Deeney says Joe Rodon is ‘adapting’ to the Premier League
Rodon has been immense for Leeds and Wales this season. On Friday night, Rodon stooped to score the winner against West Ham from a Sean Longstaff corner, a connection that worked against Bournemouth.
Not only is Rodon proving solid in defence, even alongside new partner Jaka Bijol on Friday night, but he is starting to score goals. That was his third for Wales and Leeds, equalling his previous career total.
Deeney said Rodon is proving he is good enough in the Premier League with Leeds after previous doubts: “He was a mountain. A great header for his goal but it was more about the pressure they were under.
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“A huge game against West Ham at Elland Road. You have to go into those games and just dominate. He adapted himself, he’s started to find his feet and show he is capable of playing to a really good level.”
Troy Deeney view mirrors Daniel Farke opinion of Joe Rodon
Deeney is not the only one who thinks Rodon is proving he is more than adept in the Premier League. Speaking recently in a press conference, Farke praised Rodon when asked about his summer comments.
“Much more mature, grown as a player and as a person, a way better player than he was three years ago. He’s proven already that he can do it. But it is about doing it over a whole season, showing consistency.”
Leeds players celebrate with Joe Rodon after scoring vs West Ham.
Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images
Not only that, but Farke has more recently said that Rodon’s improving goal threat is one of his proudest achievements during his time as Leeds manager. Farke has been on Rodon’s back to improve his heading.
Incredibly, Rodon is closing in on Norman Hunter’s run of 113 consecutive league starts, with West Ham being his 95th. Unless injured or suspended, there is no way that Rodon is dropped by Farke this season.