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Cheltenham Town’s New Signing: The “Welsh John Stones”

New loanee Joe Rodon is fully focused on excelling at Cheltenham, despite interest from a number of big clubs. Dubbed as the Welsh John Stones, Rodon has excelled at Youth team level, captaining Swansea for the U23s. He has received interest from the likes of Celtic and Manchester City, highlighting the serious quality of the 20 year-0ld centre-back.

Rodon has joined on loan until the end of the season, and is fully focused on helping his new team, despite the hype surrounding him.

“It’s always nice to hear the hype about big clubs being interested, but I don’t look into any of that too much, all I am interested in is doing my best and I am excited for the challenge ahead at Cheltenham.

“Coming out on loan is something I feel I needed so I will come here, play my own and game and try not to change anything.”

Joe Rodon (Number 6) in action for Swansea against West Ham United.

Though gaining some experience playing in the Checkatrade Trophy, Rodon is excited to finally gain some first team experience, and hopefully show his qualities he has gained from being given captaincy.

“Being given the armband at club and national level has definitely helped me improve on and off the pitch.

“Everything is about communication. I don’t think people realise how important communication is and it makes your job and your teammates job easier.

“I hope to come here and implement my communication skills to help the team moving forward.”

Rodon did actually appear against Cheltenham this season in the Checkatrade Trophy, where Swansea U21s beat The Robins 2-1 at Whaddon Road. This hasn’t gone missed by Rodon’s new teammates, who were quick to give him some friendly banter around the result.

“I’ve already had a bit of banter about that game and it’s good to get in with the boys, who have been brilliant with me so far,” Rodon said.

Rodon will hope to gain his first start on Saturday, as they travel to a struggling Grimsby Town.