Leeds United midfielder Joe Rothwell has dispelled any doubts about his loan move to Elland Road, asserting that he’s now proving his worth after a slow start to the season.
The Bournemouth loanee has stepped up impressively, helping Leeds secure four wins, two draws, and just one defeat in his seven recent starts.
Defying Expectations
Addressing the scepticism, Rothwell said:
“Sometimes, people see you leaving a club to go on loan and think that you come in just to make up the numbers. Obviously, in my mind, that was never the case. I’ve played in a lot of games at this level, but I’ve also worked my way into a Premier League team and there’s a reason for that.”
Rothwell had to be patient as manager Daniel Farke initially opted for defensive-minded midfielders Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev. But injuries to both players opened the door for Rothwell and fellow attacking midfielder Ao Tanaka to shine. Their partnership in midfield has brought possession dominance and attacking flair, silencing critics who doubted their ability to replace the more defensive pairing.
Finding His Rhythm
Rothwell admits that while he’s grateful for the opportunity, breaking into the team under such circumstances wasn’t ideal.
“It’s not always nice to get into the team through someone else’s injury, but that’s what having a squad is for, and you need to be ready,” he reflected. “I had to be patient, but I’ve managed to get in now, and I feel like I’ve given a good account of myself when I’ve played.”
The midfielder believes he’s now finding his rhythm and hopes to maintain his current form as Leeds push for success in the Championship. “I feel like I’m probably starting to get into a bit of a rhythm now. May that continue and let’s see where it takes us,” he added.
Writer’s View
Joe Rothwell’s journey at Leeds United highlights the importance of resilience and readiness in professional football. Despite initial doubts, his performances have validated his presence in the squad, proving he’s more than just a backup option. As Leeds continue their campaign, Rothwell’s form could be pivotal in their pursuit of promotion.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
