Not ‘what a defender’, but ‘what a player’. What a footballer, with a world-class talent”- Manor Solomon awe-struck as Leeds United teammate leaves him saying ‘what a player’ at Oxford
Manor Solomon’s Goal Puts Leeds One Step Closer to Premier League, but Joe Rodon Steals the Show
Despite scoring the goal that brought Leeds United within 90 minutes of Premier League football, Manor Solomon only held the Man of the Match award for a mere five or six seconds.
After his match-winning performance against Preston North End just six days earlier, the Tottenham Hotspur loanee was at it again, delivering another crucial goal.
Jayden Bogle, who has been outstanding for Leeds, provided the assist just past the half-hour mark.
Bogle’s pinpoint delivery made it almost impossible for Solomon to miss, and his finish marked another impressive step toward double figures—he now has nine goals and nine assists, with plenty of time to reach ten in both categories.
However, despite his vital contribution, Solomon passed the Man of the Match trophy to a teammate who truly overshadowed him in what can only be described as a “performance of champions” at the Kassam Stadium.
Manor Solomon in Awe of Joe Rodon’s Dominance
Solomon was left in awe of Joe Rodon’s display, which was nothing short of a masterclass in central defense.
It was a performance that not only warranted widespread praise on social media but could likely inspire a thesis on the importance of a solid defensive foundation in achieving success.
“What a man! What a player!” Solomon beamed. “Not just a defender—what a footballer.”
Rodon, who completed nine clearances—more than double his usual average—was a rock at the back against an Oxford team known for their physicality.
But it wasn’t just his defensive capabilities that stood out. The move leading to Solomon’s 33rd-minute winner began with Rodon, who played a perfectly weighted through ball to Jayden Bogle, setting him free down the right wing for the assist.
Leeds United’s Narrow Victory Keeps Promotion Dream Alive
Though the performance wasn’t as dazzling as some of their previous displays, Leeds’ gritty victory was crucial.
The combination of Rodon’s precise passing, Bogle’s cross, and Solomon’s clinical finish secured all three points—points that could prove vital in the race for automatic promotion, and potentially the Championship title.
“It was a tough game, but the three points are the most important thing,” Solomon said.
“The job isn’t done yet, we need to stay humble, but I’m already looking forward to Monday!”
Rodon echoed his teammate’s sentiment, reflecting on the team’s resilience.
“We could have scored more in the first half, but they are dangerous on the counter. We stayed solid and got the job done,” he said.
“We’ve been focusing on what we do best—playing quickly and limiting the other team’s chances. We concentrate on ourselves, and that’s what matters.”
Rodon added, “It wasn’t just me—everyone did what was needed. We will never give up, and we’ll fight to the end.”
