Since arriving from Bristol City in the summer, Luke Ayling has played an important role in Leeds United’s success this season.
It’s been an excellent season so far for Leeds United fans. Challenging for promotion, and seemingly nailed on for a place in the play-offs come the end of the season, Leeds United’s first season under Garry Monk has gone far better than many expected.
Taking a largely under-performing squad, and adding to it a blend of experienced players and young academy hopefuls desperate to make their mark, Garry Monk has performed something of a footballing miracle over the last 5-6 months, and could well be set to guide the Whites back to the top flight.
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Leeds United manager Garry Monk
Of Leeds stars this season, there are many who have taken the headlines. Pontus Jansson, who recently signed a permanent deal, Kemar Roofe, Ronaldo Viera, Chris Wood. All have gained plenty of plaudits this year. But has one player in particular missed out?
That player could well be defender, Luke Ayling.
Leeds’ Luke Ayling
After signing from Bristol City in the summer, Leeds United’s Luke Ayling has played a vital part in the Whites’ success this season. Over December and January, Ayling played the full 90 minutes in all of his 11 appearances, as well as taking up a number of positions; playing as both a right-back and a centre-back.
Ayling’s versatility, and ability to fill in a number of roles for Leeds, makes him by default one of their most important players. So many promotion winning sides are filled with players who can offer their team more than one tactic, position or style of play.
Luke Ayling of Leeds United
Ayling also brings another aspect to the team that not many in this Leeds United side do: promotion experience. With Bristol City, Ayling played an important part in their romping of League One, and his knowledge of what it takes to get promoted could be vital to Leeds this season.
Quietly and without fuss, Lule Ayling is making a massive impact on Leeds United, and could well prove to be one of the signings of the season, come the end of this Championship campaign.
Derby’s Ikechi Anya in action with Leeds’ Luke Ayling
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