The Leeds United connection has proven to be integral for a group of Welsh players as they gear up for the Euro 2024 play-off match against Finland.
Joe Rodon, a consistent presence in Daniel Farke’s Leeds United team since his loan move from Tottenham Hotspur, has expressed his appreciation for the game time he has received. He believes that being alongside fellow Welsh players Ethan Ampadu, Daniel James, and Connor Roberts at Leeds is advantageous for all of them.
“It’s unusual to have four Welsh lads here,” Rodon remarked, underscoring the importance of regular playing time at the club level. “For all of the Welsh players, it’s crucial for us to be playing week-in, week-out because when the time comes and we all have to perform at the international level, it’s important that we’re ready to go.”
Rodon is eagerly anticipating the upcoming season, focusing on maintaining his fitness and performance for his club, while also hoping for the chance to represent Wales at an international level.
Wales is poised to host Finland in the play-off semi-final at the Cardiff City Stadium on Thursday, 21 March. If successful, they will advance to face either Poland or Estonia in the final in Cardiff five days later, vying for a place at the Euros in Germany this summer.
Rodon is currently in peak form as he approaches the international break, playing a pivotal role under Farke at Leeds this season. Following a convincing 4-0 victory over Swansea City, the Whites currently hold the second position in the Championship.
Reflecting on his return to the club where he made his Championship debut in 2018, Rodon admitted that it was a strange experience for him. “It was a bit weird, I haven’t been back here since I left,” he shared. “It means a lot to me, it’s where I grew up, it’s where I came through. I’ll always have this place in my heart.”
The cohesiveness and regular playing opportunities at Leeds United appear to be contributing significantly to the development and preparedness of the Welsh quartet as they anticipate the challenges ahead in their international pursuits.