Luke Ayling reacts to what Georginio Rutter did during 3-0 win for Leeds United over Cardiff City
Luke Ayling has responded to Georginio Rutter after the Leeds United forward dedicated his goal against Cardiff to him following a loan move to Middlesbrough.
The Elland Road veteran completed a loan move to the Riverside Stadium on Wednesday, with the transfer being a very upsetting one for the footballing family at Leeds after eight years with the club.
And Rutter was quick to pay tribute to the on-loan full-back, busting out Ayling’s famous celebration after netting in the 3-0 win at Cardiff on Saturday 13 January.
Sharing a post from the official Leeds United Instagram page, Ayling wrote: “I see you brother” with the blue, yellow and white hearts in Leeds colours.
The Elland Road cult legend is likely to end his Leeds career at the end of the season, with his contract set to run out.
A touching moment
The departure of Ayling is not what anyone wanted to see during this January transfer window. But at 32 years of age, shunned to the bench by a host of younger players, and with no hope of getting minutes on the pitch, it seemed inevitable that the full-back would leave.
Rutter’s celebration showed just how appreciated Ayling has been at Elland Road since joining back in August 2016. He mustered up 268 appearances over eight years, experiencing the highs and lows of promotion and relegation.
Ayling was one of the members who took Leeds back to the top flight of English football, something that fans will never feel like they can repay him for. Although it is sad to see him leave, it is a bittersweet moment because Ayling will be happier with more opportunities on the pitch.
And he has earned the right to choose happiness, at this point. All fans should agree with that. Because Ayling has poured his blood, sweat and tears into Leeds United Football Club. He embodies everything that Leeds stand for.
It is unlikely that Rutter’s celebration will be the last dedication to his time at Elland Road.
In other Leeds United news, Ayling replacement eyed as club open to offers for international ace.