Daniel Farke provides Luke Ayling injury update ahead of Leeds United clash v Preston
Daniel Farke has revealed that Luke Ayling missed the clash between Leeds United and Ipswich Town through injury rather than his place in the pecking order.
The veteran right back who has been left out of a number of Leeds matchday squads this season was nowhere to be seen at Elland Road on Saturday (23 December) for the Whites’ 4-0 win, with most assuming Farke had once again left him out.
But the German has confirmed that the 32-year-old has suffered a minor injury, but has provided a positive update on both Jamie Shackleton and Sam Byram, suggesting that both players are ahead of schedule and nearing a return.
As quoted by Leeds Live (24 December) he said: “Luke, sadly, had no chance because he had some knee problems. That was why he wasn’t in the squad. I hope he can return back pretty soon.
“The same perhaps even with Sam Byram. Rehab looks good, so I hope he can perhaps return a bit quicker than just in the New Year. We’ll see what the next days will bring.
“With Jamie Shackleton, I hope also the same, that he can be a topic in the next games and I hope Jaidon Anthony will be back pretty soon.”
One out, two back
Luke Ayling has almost been a spare part at Elland Road so far this season with the likes of Shackleton, Archie Gray and Djed Spence all preferred ahead of the 32-year-old at right-back at various points so far this season.
However, with his experience and know-how, Ayling is an excellent option to have at the Whites’ disposal and offers a big and important presence in the changing room. Leeds United will be hoping he makes a swift return so that they at least have the option of selecting him.
He had struggled with a knee issue earlier on this season so it will be a worry to the Whites that he has once again been ruled out for similar reasons. His contract is up at the end of the season and he may well need to be fit to secure his future at Elland Road.
On a more positive note, having Byram and Shackleton back available in the new year will be a huge boost to Farke and his team. Both players have impressed so far this season and could have big parts to play between now and the end of the campaign.
In other Leeds United news, Brighton have already reportedly identified Crysencio Summerville ahead of the transfer window