Luke Ayling misses Mateusz Klich at Leeds United as message sent after Thursday news

Luke Ayling has sent a message to Mateusz Klich after the Leeds United right-back signed a contract extension at Elland Road.

The club confirmed (16 February) they had taken up a one-year option on the 31-year-old’s current deal which will see him remain in West Yorkshire until 2024.

Klich reacted to the news of Ayling’s new contract by saying “love to see it” (Instagram, 16 February) and the Elland Road veteran has since responded.

“Miss you my man,” said Ayling (Instagram, 16 February).

About time

Ayling’s contract saga has dwindled on for far too long and it’s good to see both parties come to a conclusion. Rasmus Kristensen’s poor form has seen the 31-year-old reclaim his starting berth and he could play a big part for the remainder of the season.

He evidently wants to finish his career at Elland Road and having an experienced head in the dressing room will be vital for Michael Skubala. After the news of Ayling’s contract, it will be interesting to see how the board address the right-back situation in the summer.

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Kristensen has struggled since arriving from RB Salzburg and is potentially not up to the standard required. Realistically, Ayling only has one more season in him and Cody Drameh is currently on loan at Luton Town. It’s a bit of a mess, and this contract extension will only prolong the issue for another season.

A lot of the blame lies solely on Jesse Marsch’s shoulders after the American failed to address the situation effectively in the summer.

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