Leeds United’s Joe Rodon and Connor Roberts, currently on loan from the club, have decided to withdraw from the Wales squad for their upcoming friendly matches against Gibraltar and Slovakia. This news was communicated to Wales manager Rob Page, indicating that the duo will not be available for selection as the national team faces these European opponents on June 6 and June 9.
Initially included in the squad set to travel to the Algarve before heading to Slovakia, Rodon and Roberts have opted to step back from international duties. The reason for their withdrawal is unclear, with possibilities ranging from the need for rest after a demanding season with Leeds, which culminated in a play-off final loss at Wembley, to potential injuries sustained in the lead-up to the matches.
Additionally, Glen Kamara of Leeds has also pulled out of Finland’s fixtures due to a leg injury. Despite the absence of Rodon and Roberts, players like Ethan Ampadu, Dan James, and newcomer Charlie Crew are still part of the Welsh squad as they prepare for the friendly fixtures.
As the future of Rodon and Roberts with Leeds remains uncertain after the conclusion of the 2023/24 season, with the duo expected to return to their parent clubs, discussions about potential future loans or permanent transfers are on hold. While Roberts seems unlikely to join Leeds permanently after limited game time during his loan spell, Rodon’s status as a popular figure at the club could lead to renewed interest from Tottenham Hotspur in another loan deal. However, Leeds’ failure to secure promotion complicates any potential permanent move for the defender due to financial considerations.
