Leeds United are now enjoying Joe Rodon’s outstanding performances at centre-back, but things may have turned out differently if Manchester City’s Taylor Harwood-Bellis, who is now on loan at Southampton, had been available.
The Whites face Leicester City on Friday, knowing that a win could momentarily propel them three points ahead in second place and reduce the deficit to six points at the top.
Joe Rodon, who joined on loan from Tottenham, has been a rock-solid defender who has helped them get to this healthy position.
Leeds may have signed Taylor Harwood-Bellis instead of Rodon.
According to Phil Hay of The Athletic, Rodon was not the only target Leeds had in mind when looking to strengthen at centre-back in August.
Taylor Harwood-Bellis, a Manchester City centre-back on loan at Southampton this season, was another significant target who is having another spectacular season in the promotion race after helping Burnley win the title on loan last season.
Another name that came up repeatedly was Liverpool’s Nat Phillips, a defender who has had a much worse season than the other two, having been loaned out to Celtic for the season before being cut short in January and then joining Cardiff City.
Compared: Rodon and Harwood-Bellis in the Championship.
When you look at the top of the Championship standings, you’re bound to find the best centre-backs in the division, and these two are often regarded as among the best.
Leeds’ defensive record this season has been better than the Saints’, but Harwood-Bellis has really stood out under Russell Martin.
23/24 Statistics Joe RodonTaylor Harwood-Bellis
Appearances (minutes). 30 (2554) 27 (2376)
Goals conceded: 26 40
Clean sheets: 14 10
Dribbled past: 4 1
Pass success: 91% 93%
Duel success: 67% 57.6%
Rodon and Harwood-Bellis are prominent contenders in the Championship.
This season, there’s little to distinguish these two in the Championship, and it’s easy to see why both fanbases are ecstatic with their respective accomplishments.
Rodon has been a standout defender for Leeds this season, excelling at defending his own box while also demonstrating his ability in possession.
Harwood-Bellis, on the other hand, is better suited to the Saints’ possession-heavy approach and appears to be an ideal fit for Martin.
It is apparent that both teams would like to sign their centre-backs permanently in the summer.
