Leeds United and Wales international Joe Rodon is the special guest on the latest episode of the club’s official podcast, joining Stuart Dallas, Michael Bridges and presenter Emma Jones.

The defender reflects on the “best dressing room” he has been in, finding a home at Leeds, playing for Wales, and his interests away from the pitch, including chess and fashion.

Supporters can watch the full episode now on YouTube, with the podcast also available across all major podcast platforms.

JOE ON TEAM TOGETHERNESS

“I can’t speak highly enough of the dressing room. I think it’s probably the best I’ve been in. The two-and-a-half years since I’ve been at Leeds, with just how good everyone is, really tight-knit, not just the lads but across the club as well, the staff and everyone involved.

“I think that is one of our strengths - the togetherness in that aspect. We’ve changed system and adapted, and when things are going well confidence is through the roof, and that is credit to everyone involved in turning it around. But we knew it was going to be difficult. This is where we want to be and we are finding our feet in this league.”

JOE ON GARETH BALE ADVICE

“I’d probably say when I was younger I used to be really hard on myself after I made a mistake and I think that would carry on into the game for a period of time. The more you hold yourself to a high standard, it’s about your reaction after a mistake.

“So Gareth Bale pulled me aside and he said, ‘Don’t worry about it, everyone makes mistakes - just get on with it. It’s all about what you can do next.’”

JOE ON PLAYING CHESS

“I think ‘very good’ is a bit far, but yeah, I’m good at chess. Academically I’m not smart, I’m going to be honest there. But I think chess is strategic and kind of problem solving. I think I’m good at that.

“I only started playing like two years ago. Ben Davies forced me to play when we were away with the national team and then I just loved it. I watched The Queen’s Gambit and just couldn’t stop playing, to be fair.”

JOE ON REPRESENTING WALES

“I don’t think I’ll ever get more nervous than playing for my country. I think the emotion part comes into that. I think at the World Cup, that’s probably the most nervous I’ve ever been - the first game walking out there.

“I think just everyone being there - everyone you know, everyone you’ve grown up with - watching. It’s just a different feeling I guess.”