How do you solve a problem like Marek Rodak?
There was plenty of discussion in the summer when the club signed current number one Alphonse Areola about what the move would do for the Slovakian, who had established himself as the clubs first-choice goalkeeper in the latter end of last season.
As detailed in Peter Rutzler’s article from The Athletic, it was a very similar situation to what happened in the summer of 2018 when we brought in Sergio Rico and Fabri as additional options to the established Marcus Bettinelli. Bettinelli ultimately stuck around for the season even though he didn’t play much once he was dropped, but when I look at Rodak and what the club might have planned in the goalkeeper department, I’m not sure if that’s the best case for him.
Unless Areola suffers a very bad injury, I don’t think it’s likely he’s going to be dropped this season, he has been one of our better performers this season, and was our best player when we played West Ham United before the international break.
So what is Rodak to do?
Should the club loan out Rodak in January?
Yes
No
With his national side having qualified for the European Championships next summer, he is more than likely going to be looking for game time to help stay in shape and ahead of the likes of Martin Dubravka when he returns from his injury.
Would it be so ‘out there’ to suggest that we send him out on loan in order to make sure he stays in form, not just for his country but also heading into next season (whatever division we might be in)? We’re keeping him about in case of an emergency I understand, but surely we could get Fabri to fill that spot instead whilst we look after someone who could be the future in goal. And if he stays in form, then we’ll have the pleasure of seeing a Fulham player at the Euros in the summer, which is always nice to see.
It would be a tough decision to make, but one that I don’t think we should necessarily dismiss.
What about you? Do you think the club should keep hold of Rodak all season? Or should he be loaned out in January?