Leeds United star hails huge new Whites boost and declares team midfield hope

Joe Rodon has saluted a fresh Leeds United boost and with it declared his next season Whites midfield hope.

Wales international centre-back Rodon is back for a second crack at promotion with Leeds after last season’s loan spell but now back for good following his permanent £10m move from Tottenham Hotspur.

The 26-year-old quickly became a virtual ever present at the heart of the Whites defence following last season’s loan move, initially partnering Pascal Struijk at centre-back.

Struijk, though, saw his season ended prematurely after suffering a groin injury on the back of Boxing Day’s defeat at Preston North End which ultimately required surgery and finished his campaign.

Struijk’s absence led to Rodon’s Wales international team mate Ethan Ampadu dropping back from midfield into defence and the pair formed another strong partnership as Daniel Farke’s Whites attempted to seal automatic promotion.

Struijk, though, is now back in training, a return saluted by Rodon in both strengthening United’s options and also paving the way for Ampadu’s likely midfield return.

“Pascal, obviously, it was unfortunate for him with how well he did in the first half of the season,” said Rodon to LUTV.

"Of course, Ethan slots into that position easy, he is a player who can play in many positions and I think that's credit to him. I think I don't want to confuse him too much! So I would rather him be in midfield for now but we will see what happens."

Pressed on the value of Struijk’s return - and therein increased competition for places - Rodon reasoned: "I think that's something we want. We want a squad which is full of talent and full of quality and the more competition you have in positions, it's only going to benefit you.

"You know how long the season is so the more competition and depth we have in those positions, it is only going to benefit the whole team and  something we want to achieve going forward."