Troy Deeney: £11M Player Thrives After Spurs Loan

Troy Deeney, former Watford striker and current Sky Sports pundit, has lauded the improvement of Joe Rodon since his departure from Tottenham Hotspur to Leeds United. Following Leeds’ 1-0 victory against Bristol City in the Championship, where Rodon featured as a central defender in a 4-2-3-1 formation, Deeney highlighted the player’s growth during the season.

Rodon, who joined Leeds on loan from Tottenham in the summer of 2023 for £11 million, has made 26 starts and one substitute appearance in the Championship this season. Deeney praised Rodon’s physical development, emphasizing his increased size and strength. The pundit noted that Rodon has added a steeliness to his game, displaying improved decision-making and confidence, qualities that were less prominent 18 months ago.

Expressing admiration for Rodon’s on-ball skills, Deeney remarked on the player’s enhanced defensive attributes and overall maturation. While Rodon’s loan move to Leeds has proven successful, it raises doubts about his future at Tottenham Hotspur. The 26-year-old Welsh international, under contract until the summer of 2025, has not featured prominently for Spurs, and his loan departure suggests that he may not have a place in Ange Postecoglou’s team.

Given the defensive reinforcements brought in by Tottenham, including signings like Ashley Phillips, Micky van de Ven, and Radu Dragusin, it appears that Rodon’s future with the North London club is uncertain. The decision to let him leave on loan implies that Postecoglou may not see him as part of the long-term plans. As the season progresses, Tottenham might consider cashing in on Rodon, as he continues to thrive during his loan spell with Leeds.