MOT Leeds News speaking to Paul Robinson

Thu 23 February 2023 9:10, UK

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 could be played out of position by Javi Gracia as the Spaniard gets set for his first game in charge of Leeds United.

Southampton travel to Elland Road on Saturday (25 February) in what is a huge match in the Whites’ battle to avoid relegation.

Ayling was played in the centre of defence against Everton due to an injury to Max Wober and Robinson believes he is more than capable of filling in if required.

“Kristensen came on and then Ayling moved to centre half against Everton. Kristensen will play as a right back, he will very rarely move into the middle,” Robinson exclusively told MOT Leeds News.

“Whether it’s Robin Koch or Liam Cooper or whether he moves to a three at the back, you don’t know what type of system he’s going to play with the options he’s got.

“I am not one for playing players out of position but Ayling can do a job at centre half, with Kristensen at right back like we saw at Goodison, or he’s got Cooper to come into the side.

“Personally, I like to see players playing in the right position so one of the central defenders would be ideal, but if it’s a back three then Ayling would be more than capable of filling in as the manager sees fit.”

Gracia simply has to start off his rein with three points. Southampton have been struggling all season and are also engulfed in the relegation dogfight.

Ruben Selles is currently in caretaker charge at St Mary’s and got off to the perfect start with a win over big-spending Chelsea.

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