Rodon does not need armband to lead by example
"Whoa! I don't think it's even sunk in yet!" admitted an emotional Joe Rodon to BBC Radio Leeds in the immediate aftermath of the dramatic 2-1 over Sunderland at Elland Road.
"Those ones are the best ones when you score in the last minute to win. It's a fantastic night and now I'm really looking forward to next week."
The defender is of course referring to Monday's top of the Championship clash at second-placed Sheffield United when he will be the first name on manager Daniel Farke's team-sheet.
The Wales international has played 40 full 90 minutes for club and country this season, not missing a minute of league action.
Rodon, 27, wears his heart on his sleeve, is often in the wars on the pitch and does not need an armband to lead by example.
He would rather reserve the praise for those who do, whether it be his compatriot and club captain Ethan Ampadu, or fellow centre-back Pascal Struijk whose brace as a substitute secured the points against Sunderland.
"For Pascal to come on, after he hasn't played in a couple of games, and do that is incredible and I'm very happy for him," Rodon added.
The former Spurs man was just as effusive about midfielder Joe Rothwell who assisted both goals after also being thrown into the fray from the bench.
"He's kind of our unsung hero is Joe," Rodon said.
"A brilliant technical player and you can see he has added to us this year with that more kind of direct play and by bringing the quality and lifting the level of the group. He changed the game but I'm not surprised at all."
Every side needs game changers at times but it also requires its stalwarts - Rodon is certainly that.
He was also savouring every precious drop of an ecstatic victory.
"It's important as a team to celebrate moments like this and especially for the fans and the club," he said.
In a season when others have caught the eye, particularly from the wings, they owe many of their moments in the sun to the guile and spirit of the warrior behind them who is steering them on the journey whilst milking every minute.
Sheffield United v Leeds United (KO 20:00 GMT) will be live from Bramall Lane on all BBC Radio Leeds frequencies with all the build up from 18:00.
Listen to West Yorkshire Sport Daily, weeknights at 18:00, and subscribe to BBC Radio Leeds' Don't Go To Bed Just Yet podcast on BBC Sounds
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