Don Goodman reacts to Leeds United and Middlesbrough January transfer news
We’re delighted to welcome EFL expert and former striker Don Goodman as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Elland Road.
Luke Ayling swapping Leeds United for fellow Championship side Middlesbrough is a “great move” for all concerned, according to Don Goodman.
The long-serving defender officially joined Boro on loan for the remainder of the season on Wednesday (10 January).
Ayling is out of contract in the summer, meaning his seven-and-a-half season stay with Leeds – during which time he made 268 appearances – is effectively over.
Leeds are hoping the fan favourite will be in attendance at Elland Road for the Preston North End game on 21 January so supporters can pay a fitting send-off.
Having started just eight of United’s 26 league games this season, Ayling’s days at the club have looked numbered for a while.
However, still aged just 32, Goodman believes that the Arsenal youth product could yet make a big impact at Middlesbrough.
“For Luke, it’s a great move in that he’s not getting regular football at Leeds United,” Goodman told MOT Leeds News.
“Archie Gray, a midfielder, has been playing at right-back most of the season. Djed Spence came in and has now gone back to Spurs.
“So it makes perfect sense for Luke Ayling. He’s been a wonderful servant for Leeds United.
“If his career ended tomorrow he can look back with immense pride at what a journey it’s been.
“I remember him at Yeovil many years ago and the journey he’s been on since being let go by Arsenal.
“So for him to end up at Leeds United and get promoted to the Premier League, be a Premier League player for a few years and become a fan favourite at Elland Road, he’s done a brilliant job.
“But it’s about the here and now when you’re a player when you get to that stage of your career – you want to be playing football week in, week out.
“In Middlesbrough, and under Michael Carrick, he’s going to a very good and ambitious club. A club that’s probably far enough behind Leeds for Leeds not to be worried that Luke Ayling will bridge that gap on his own.
“I don’t see Middlesbrough catching Leeds United. Had it been tighter, then Leeds may have thought twice about letting him go to them.
“I think it’s a good deal all around for the player and club. Middlesbrough need leaders and he certainly falls into that category.”
In other Leeds United news, a Premier League player is reportedly open to joining the Whites this month.