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Leeds United defender Joe Rodon criticised for 'silly' decision in Wales draw v Armenia
BBC Sport journalist Michael Pearlman hit out at Leeds United defender Joe Rodon for something “silly” he did while representing Wales.
Rodon was heavily involved in the action as Wales were held to a disappointing 1-1 Euro 2024 qualifying draw on Saturday (18 November).
The 26-year-old thought he had scored the Dragons’ equaliser in Yerevan shortly before half-time, only for it to go down as an own goal.
However, Rodon would have been disappointed with the early goal Wales shipped, and he also committed a team-high three fouls [WhoScored].
Covering the game for BBC Sport’s live blog [18 November], Pearlman said of one such incident late on: “Joe Rodon gives away a silly foul.”
Led the way
Rodon did not have his finest of afternoons as Wales were held to a draw that damages their hopes of qualifying automatically for Euro 2024.
The Tottenham defender, who made the switch to Elland Road on a season’s loan in August, rarely puts a foot wrong for club or country.
While he may have done more to keep out Armenia’s goal, Rodon did lead the way in terms of aerial duels won (five) and passing accuracy (92.2%) [WhoScored].
Add into the mix the part he played in Wales’ equaliser, and I’m sure he can be forgiven for the “silly” free-kick he gave away.
The most important thing from a Leeds perspective is that Rodon came through the match unscathed, but Wales still have another game – at home to Turkey on Tuesday (21 November) – this international window.
That gives Rodon less than 72 hours to prepare himself for Leeds’ return to action against Rotherham United on Friday (24 November).
Despite the quick turnaround, if he is fit, he will almost certainly start.
In other Leeds United news, a pundit has been left stunned by a transfer stance regarding a first-team player at Elland Road.