Sport nationMiddlesbrough manager Michael Carrick has expressed his delight after confirming the permanent signing of Luke Ayling from Leeds United. The 32-year-old defender has put pen to paper on a two-year deal at the Riverside Stadium, bringing an end to his eight-year stint at Elland Road.
Ayling initially joined Middlesbrough on loan in January, and his impressive performances have convinced Carrick to make the move permanent. The right-back has made a significant impact at the Teesside club, providing eight assists in just 19 appearances and becoming a fan favorite.
“We’re delighted that Luke is staying with us,” Carrick said in a statement on the club’s website. “After coming in on loan in January, he settled in very quickly and made a big impact, bringing his character and personality to the group. He knows what it takes to be a success in this league.”
Ayling’s departure from Leeds United marks the end of an era, having played a crucial role in the club’s promotion to the Premier League under Marcelo Bielsa in 2019-20. He made 268 appearances for the Whites, establishing himself as a key member of the starting lineup.
However, with game time limited under Daniel Farke this season, Ayling opted to join Middlesbrough on loan in January. His impressive form at the Riverside Stadium has earned him a permanent deal, and he will now face his former club next season.
“Luke has been a fantastic addition to our squad, and we’re thrilled to have him on board permanently,” Carrick added. “The club has got under his skin, and the supporters have really taken to him as well. He’s a top professional, and we’re looking forward to seeing him continue to excel in the Championship.”
Ayling’s departure is the first permanent exit of the summer for Leeds United, who suffered a heartbreaking defeat in the Championship play-off final to Southampton on Sunday. The Whites will now face Middlesbrough and Ayling next season, with the right-back set to make his first appearance against his former club.
Despite the disappointment of leaving Leeds United, Ayling can hold his head high after an impressive eight-year stint at Elland Road. He played a vital role in the club’s promotion to the Premier League and was a key member of the starting lineup that remained in the top tier for three years.
Ayling’s move to Middlesbrough is a significant coup for the Teesside club, who are looking to build on their impressive form under Carrick. The manager has made no secret of his admiration for the defender, and his permanent signing is a major boost ahead of the new season.
With Ayling now a permanent member of the squad, Middlesbrough will be looking to build on their impressive form in the Championship. The club has a rich history of developing talented players, and Ayling’s arrival is a significant statement of intent ahead of the new season.
As for Leeds United, the departure of Ayling marks the end of an era, but the club will be looking to build on their impressive form under Daniel Farke. The Whites have a talented squad and will be looking to bounce back from their play-off final defeat with a strong performance next season.
In conclusion, the permanent signing of Luke Ayling by Middlesbrough is a significant coup for the Teesside club. The defender’s impressive form on loan has earned him a permanent deal, and he will now face his former club next season. Ayling’s departure from Leeds United marks the end of an era, but the club will be looking to build on their impressive form underThere was a problem generating a response. Please try again later.
Sport nation
Amina Umar