"He was a bit younger and naïve" - Troy Deeney issues verdict on Leeds United star | OneFootball

Highlights

Troy Deeney has highlighted how Joe Rodon has improved during his loan spell with .

Rodon arrived at Elland Road in the summer following an agreement with Tottenham Hotspur and has cemented himself as a key figure in Daniel Farke’s side.

The Wales international has been a mainstay in the side since first breaking into the squad, leading to speculation over a permanent move to the Yorkshire outfit in the summer.

Rodon struggled for game time with Spurs since joining the club, but has gone from strength-to-strength since making his return to the Championship.

While there remains uncertainty over his future, it is clear that he has become a fan favourite among the Leeds supporters this year due to his performances.

Deeney has complimented how Rodon has developed during his time working under Farke this year.

The former striker claimed that he felt the centre-back was quite young and naive when he faced Rodon in the past, but that he now sees a more commanding defender during Leeds games.

“I feel like he has grown up and what I mean by that is, I think he has physically come into himself – bigger, stronger,” said Deeney on Sky Sports, via Leeds United News.

“A big part of my game was to rough centre-halves up so when I played against him he was a bit younger and naïve.

“He has been really good, on the ball.

“But now adding that steel to his game, know-how, has all come with experience.

“These things he wasn’t doing 18 months ago.

“You can see now he’s backing himself, which wasn’t there before. He’s a very good player.”

Leeds United transfers

Leeds were unable to secure a permanent deal to sign Rodon during the January transfer window.

A decision on the 26-year-old’s future likely won’t be made until the club’s league status is secured for next year, with the Whites fighting for promotion to the Premier League.

Farke’s side is fighting for a top two spot, as they seek automatic promotion straight back to the top flight at the first attempt.

The January window closed last Thursday night, which proved a busy period for the club.

Leeds added Connor Roberts to their ranks, bolstering their defensive options for the remainder of the Championship campaign following a loan agreement with Burnley.

The likes of Djed Spence and Luke Ayling departed Elland Road prior to Roberts’ arrival.

Rodon will be key to promotion battle

Rodon has been so important to Leeds already this season, and they will need him to maintain his impressive form if they are to finish in the top two.

Competition for the second automatic promotion place is quite fierce at the minute, with Ipswich Town and Southampton also in the mix.

Securing that permanent deal for Rodon will likely depend on whether promotion is secured or not.

He has proven a great stylistic fit with Farke’s style of play, and is now a fan favourite at Elland Road, so supporters will be hoping an agreement can be reached with Spurs in the summer.