Luke Ayling to keep Leeds United starting XI place despite poor form – Sky Sports pundit
We’re delighted to welcome former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson as our exclusive columnist as each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Leeds United…
Paul Robinson has suggested Luke Ayling is “essential” to Leeds United despite the right-back enduring a tough run of form at present.
Ayling was culpable for Jordan Ayew’s second-half goal during the Whites’ 5-1 defeat to Crystal Palace on Sunday (9 April).
Despite a disappointing performance, Robinson believes the 31-year-old is a better option than Rasmus Kristensen at present.
“He’s better than Kristensen,” Robinson exclusively told MOT Leeds News.
“He’s been out of form the last two games and I don’t think he’s played to the level he would expect from himself.
“There are goals that he’s been culpable for but what he gives you in terms of leadership, it’s almost essential that he plays.
“There’s not many voices or leaders in that team and he’s the biggest one they’ve got on the field.
“The other qualities he brings, he has to play. I don’t think it’s a question of him or Kristensen – Ayling will play and he will be reliable.
“He’s been caught but he’s playing in a team that has been extremely poor and he’s been left wide open.”
Things don’t get any easier for Ayling as Liverpool travel to West Yorkshire on Monday evening (17 April) looking to build on their impressive draw against Arsenal.
Jurgen Klopp’s side have been boosted by the return of Luiz Diaz, with the Colombian sensation likely to be with the squad at Elland Road.
In other Leeds news, the club have been blasted for their “stupid” decision amid a massive development this week.