Joe Rodon adamant Rennes loan will benefit career as he joins Ramsey in France

In: Sport

JOE RODON is convinced his career is heading for greater heights after his move across the Channel.

The Tottenham and Wales defender, 24, has joined Ligue 1 side Rennes on a season-long loan with a view to a £20million deal next summer.

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Joe Rodon has joined French club Rennes from Tottenham on a season-long loanCredit: AFP
Rennes have the option to turn Rodon's temporary stay at the club into a permanent switch

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Rennes have the option to turn Rodon’s temporary stay at the club into a permanent switchCredit: AFP

Rodon will follow in the footsteps of fellow Brits David Beckham, Glenn Hoddle, Chris Waddle and Joey Barton to try and crack it in France.

There are eight British players currently playing in the French top-flight and Rodon said: “It’s not that popular with British players.

“But I feel that to come over and play in different leagues is only going to benefit and help you grow as a player in your career. 

“I’ve seen the league a few times. I expect it to be physical and technical. It’s a very strong league. I want to learn and I can’t wait to get started.”

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Rodon has been joined in France’s top tier by Wales team-mate Aaron Ramsey, who has joined Nice after his exit on a free from Juventus.

The pair hope they will get games ahead of the World Cup in November but 28-cap Rodon, who played the same number of games – 10 – for Wales as he did for Spurs last season, knows he has to earn his place.

Rodon, who was unveiled on Wednesday, added: “Playing time is not given to you.

“You have to work very hard and that is something I am willing to get my head down and work hard. Every player wants to play. At first you have to work hard.”

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British players in France

  • England – Karamoko Dembele – Brest
  • Scotland – Charles Boli – Lens
  • England – Angel Gomes – Lille
  • England – Stephy Mavididi – Montpellier
  • Wales – Aaron Ramsey – Nice
  • Wales – Joe Rodon – Rennes
  • England – Rhys Healey – Toulouse
  • England – Levi Lumeka – Troyes

The centre-back played for Tottenham in a 2-2 Europa Conference League draw with new club Rennes last September but he struggled to name any of the French side’s players in the pre-match press conference.

Rodon said: “Last year I didn’t know many (players) but now it is different.

“I have had a couple of days with the team and it is a talented young group.

“I’m getting to know them. They have been very welcoming to me. I’m sure I’ll become closer to them throughout the season.”