Former Leeds player and pundit Noel Whelan believes that “Leeds are really going for it” amid the reported news that Luke Ayling is signing a new deal with the club.
According to Leeds Live, Luke Ayling is believed to be edging closer to a new contract at Elland Road, with the defender’s current deal set to expire at the end of next season, according to Transfermarkt.
Ayling, 28, has been at the club since 2016 and has amassed over 107 league appearances for the club – so this news is likely to be well received by Leeds fans, even if Stuart Dallas is fighting him for that space at the moment.
Noel Whelan, speaking to Football Insider, revealed that “this can only be a good thing for the club” by signing an extension to such an experienced player.
He said: “Wow, we’re really going for it. A new contract for Luke Ayling is absolutely deserved. He’s a key player, experienced, massive in the dressing room and proven in the Championship.
“He’s been the first choice right-back when fit and available under many different managers, and Bielsa obviously rates him highly.”
“You need strength in depth in your squad.
“Stuart Dallas has done exceptionally well but you need to have your players pushing each other, and it’s great there is going to be a real fight for the right-back position.
“Luke Ayling faces a battle to win back his place from Dallas, but that can only be a good thing for Leeds.”
If this potential contract stops other clubs sniffing around Luke Ayling, then you would have to agree that it is some good business from Leeds. The right-back has been out all season with an ankle injury, which has meant that Stuart Dallas has been the predominant player in that position, but this new contract shows that Bielsa clearly sees him as a key part of the squad and a way back in the side for him when he is fit.
Last season, he was a very important part of Leeds’ great campaign; the defender played 40 games in the league and registered two goals as well as six assists – making him the third top assist maker for the club over the season (WhoScored).
Therefore, considering the previous, Noel Whelan makes some good points about how tying down the consistent performer should have no negatives for the side.
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