Leeds United defender Luke Ayling has revealed on the Super 6 podcast that England boss Gareth Southgate has sent him a message encouraging him after he narrowly missed out on the Three Lions squad.
There was some talk of the Leeds’ right-back being called up into England’s team, over the last international break.
However, in the end, he wasn’t part of the 23-man squad which was selected.
UEFA have now announced that 26 players will be allowed at Euro 2020 in the summer, which boosts every fringe player’s chances of getting the nod.
But Ayling admits that he doesn’t think he will break into the Three Lions’ set-up, even after Southgate’s message.
“Of course it’s a dream to play for England but when you see Trent can’t get in the squad, and there’s other young right-backs are there,” Ayling said.
“I got a nice little bit from the manager saying that I’ve been doing really well, but there’s about eight right-backs!
“You obviously hang on to it and hope for the best, but I don’t think so.”
The fact that Ayling is even being talked up as a candidate to play for England rather highlights how far he has come at Leeds.
Ayling has risen up through every league and now looks comfortably comfortable in the top flight.
His excellent form has helped Leeds into a top half position, with the Whites picking up some excellent results of late.
If Ayling is to have any chance of making it into the England squad he will surely have to to finish the season strongly, with Marcelo Bielsa’s side having five games left to play.
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