Luke Ayling has been sidelined at Leeds for quite some time after an ankle operation.
Paul Heckingbottom has received a big boost after long-term absentee Luke Ayling returned to training on Friday, which Leeds United have confirmed on their official Twitter account.
The Whites posted a video of the 26-year-old undergoing light training at Thorp Arch, who has been sidelined since coming off in the 26th minute of Leeds’ 0-0 draw against Nottingham Forest on New Year’s Day.
The former Bristol City defender has since undergone surgery and was expected to be sidelined until the new season, but with three Championship fixtures still to play, Ayling could make a surprise return.
Leeds posted the video on Twitter which shows Arsenal trainee Ayling undergoing some light ball work and quick sprints to test his ankle, with Saturday’s Yorkshire derby against Barnsley expected to be too soon.
The return of Ayling will come as a huge boost to Heckingbottom, who has been forced to field a makeshift defence since taking over at Elland Road. Youngsters Tom Pearce and Paudie O’Connor have featured, while Vurnon Anita struggles.
Leeds fans reacted to the video of Ayling on Twitter with delight, with one fan describing him as the “best right-back in the Championship”.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
