Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick has shared his thoughts following the news of Luke Ayling’s departure from Leeds United. The 32-year-old defender has signed a two-year deal with Middlesbrough, ending his eight-year stint with Leeds after joining from Bristol City in 2016.
Ayling had previously struggled for game time at Leeds, leading to his move to Middlesbrough on loan in January. His impressive performances during his loan spell convinced Carrick and the club to make the deal permanent, with Ayling contributing eight assists in 19 appearances.
Carrick expressed his delight at Ayling’s permanent arrival, praising his impact on and off the field. The manager highlighted Ayling’s understanding of what it takes to succeed in the league and how he quickly adapted to life at Middlesbrough.
Following Leeds’ defeat in the Championship play-off final, Ayling will now face his former club as a Middlesbrough player in the upcoming season. Despite leaving Leeds as a legend and key member of their promotion-winning team, Ayling is now focused on making an impact at his new club under Carrick’s guidance.
