Tottenham defender Joe Rodon has enjoyed a productive season on loan with Leeds United and has left Ange Postecoglou with a big decision to make.
The Australian was quick to establish himself in North London after arriving at Hotspur Way.
The personnel and playmaking of the Spurs are hardly recognizable from the previous campaign, and Postecoglu is bringing energy to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
The Wales international Rodon, who was sent on loan to Elland Road to play for Leeds in the Championship, was one player the 58-year-old felt wasn’t for him.
Under Daniel Farke, Rodon has emerged as a vital member of the West Yorkshire team, starting 28 of the team’s 32 league games this season and making 32 appearances overall.
Leeds’ perfect Championship record in 2024 propelled them into the automatic promotion spots. His assured performances at the defense have helped the Whites retain six clean sheets in their previous seven games.
In his native nation, Rodon excelled once more as Leeds easily defeated Swansea, the team he grew up playing for, four goals to none.
Postecoglou must decide on Rodon’s future at Tottenham
It is difficult to think that Rodon will return to North London and accept a spot among the reserves following such a significant loan term.
After his performances this season, he will definitely not be short of suitors. He will want regular football or he will be off.
In light of this, Postecoglou will need to determine Rodon’s future and may be inclined to give the center back another opportunity.
Rodon exhibited every trait of a Postecoglou central defender against his old team. He took 108 touches and completed 94% of his passes with composure while playing the ball. He was also a formidable defensive player.
In addition to making nine clearances, two tackles, and one shot block, Rodon won 100% of his aerial and ground duels.
He hasn’t really stepped on any toes lately, and he could be a contender for the title of Championship Team of the Season.
Although he has played a strong defensive game, ranking among the top 8% of Championship center-backs this season in terms of the percentage of dribblers tackled (80.0 per 90), Postecoglou will have been drawn to him because of his skill with the ball.
This season, Rodon’s pass completion percentage (90.9 percent per 90) places him in the top six percent of his positional peers and the top eight percent for his total carrying distance (293.07 yards per 90).
Additionally, he ranks in the top 10% for both his cumulative carrying distance (168.34 yards per 90) and the amount of carries he has made (53.96 per 90).
Postecoglou might not be as eager to let Rodon leave again this summer, especially given his desire for a central defender who can play the ball. Instead, he might be eager to examine the defender more closely throughout the preseason.
In any case, Postecoglou needs to decide swiftly since Rodon will probably want some clarification regarding his future as he wants to continue gaining momentum following one of his best seasons to date.
