Key Defensive Challenge Looms for Leeds United

Leeds United finds itself in a difficult situation as it deals with an unavailability problem for defender Joe Rodon. The 26-year-old, who played 50 matches last season, did well in his partnerships with Pascal Struijk and Ethan Ampadu and is loved at the Elland Road. Most importantly, he opted to join Leeds on a permanent basis which was good news for the club especially after they managed to pull him away from other top teams.

The £10 million price tag that has been placed on Rodon’s head has a valid basis, especially with the defender’s performances last season where he stood out among the very best in the league. His link up with Struijk has been crucial since it has given birth to a solid defense which the fans of Leeds resided on. With Ampadu out of action for around ten weeks, the position of Rodon becomes even more significant.

Leeds requires continuity this term and particularly in the central part of their back line. The understanding that has already been developed within Rodon, Struijk and Ampadu gives Leeds one of the best back lines in the Championship. The fact that Rodon is able to play for the squad in all the games when he is fit only goes on to demonstrate how vital he is to the plans of Daniel Farke.

But with it also noted that Max Wöber will be out for the next five weeks, the problem of central defensive resources now becomes pertinent. This may necessitate James Debayo coming into the side or Farke may opt to change some players different positions to fill the void. Always fingers crossed in this case would be Leeds fans who would want to see Rodon fit from now hence forward to keep playing at the back for them.