Andy Hinchcliffe slams ‘lucky’ Luke Ayling after what he did in loss v Manchester City
Andy Hinchcliffe has slammed Luke Ayling after the Leeds United defender was caught “ball-watching” against Manchester City.
Ayling was entrusted to start at right-back against Pep Guardiola’s side, but, like many of Leeds’ players, endured a tough afternoon.
Hinchcliffe was less than impressed with the 31-year-old after he was nearly caught out marking Phil Foden in the first half.
“Ayling is lucky because he’s ball-watching. He has no idea where Foden is,” said Hinchcliffe (Sky Sports commentary, 15:31, 6 May).
“It’s a good job he stepped forward too early for Leeds.”
Devasting
When City get going, they can be absolutely devasting and Leeds felt their full potential during the first half. Much has been made of the Whites being more direct under Sam Allardyce but against Guardiola’s winning machine, that’s easier said than done.
Manchester City’s defensive line is undeniably one of the most imposing in the Premier League. The likes of Willy Gnonto and Jack Harrison never stood a chance of making an impact in an attacking sense. The trip to the Etihad was never going to result in any points.
The upcoming fixtures against Newcastle United and West Ham United and Tottenham will define where Leeds play their football come the start of next season.
A win and a draw could give Allardyce’s side a chance of maintaining their status as a Premier League side. If he can keep the Whites up, it will go down as one of his greatest managerial achievements to date.
In other Leeds United news, one source has shared what Big Sam has done at the club, which is something that has been seen for a while.