Leeds United: ‘Absolutely huge’ verdict issued at response to Joe Rodon getting ‘head caved in’
The Leeds United defence has “absolutely huge” professional pride in keeping opponents out whatever the cost, according to Jonny Buchan.
The BBC journalist said on Don’t Go To Bed Just Yet (11 March) that the proof was in defenders and Illan Meslier actively celebrating small victories such as saves and blocks, even to their own physical detriment, such as with Joe Rodon “getting his head caved in” but still denying an opportunity.
Leeds United have conceded only three league goals in 12 Championship fixtures in 2024 as they have roared back into title contention, and Buchan believes the mindset of the players is a big reason why.
Buchan said (26m 55s): “I love the way they’re celebrating the little things in games as well, the blocks, or Rodon getting his head caved in and still pulling off the block.
“And then Meslier making [a save]. They’re celebrating those moments because that back line, I know all defenders and goalkeepers pride [themselves on] clean sheets, but it’s almost like that back line have gone, ‘You will not beat us. You are not going to score against us.’
“The professional pride in that back line to stop that happening seems to be absolutely huge.”
Tottenham loanee puts hid body on the line as Leeds United defence excels
There is plenty for the Leeds defenders to have pride in at the moment as their outstanding recent record is a huge part of why Daniel Farke has his side just three points behind once-runaway leaders Leicester.
Having started the campaign unevenly in the wake of a chaotic summer of upheaval the Whites have since found relentless form in reeling in Ipswich Town, and now find themselves on the brink of doing the same with the Foxes.
It is a measure of the incredibly high standards in the second tier this season that they are not even guaranteed an automatic promotion place still, with Southampton also in the mix.
But the professional 2-0 away win at a resurgent Sheffield Wednesday last week, before Ipswich and Leicester faltered the following day, felt like a significant one.
Meslier’s celebration of Willy Gnonto’s goal saw home fans throw bottles at him from the stands, on a night that had the looks of a potential banana skin.
Rodon has been outstanding all year and whether he ends up completing a permanent move from Tottenham or not can’t be accused of not putting everything on the line for the promotion push.
Alongside Ethan Ampadu in the middle, and with a combination of Archie Gray, Connor Roberts, Junior Firpo and Sam Byram on either side Rodon and the Leeds United defence has been formidable, which is a far cry from the situation this time last year.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites are projected to be at risk of an FFP breach if promoted back to the Premier League.
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