Archie Gray has now started Leeds United’s last three matches at right-back in the Championship.
Having started the season as a regular in central midfield, Gray has been shifted to the right side of defence in recent weeks with summer signing Djed Spence still recovering from a knee problem.
Since Spence picked up that injury, Daniel Farke has chopped and changed his preferred option at right-back, with Gray having been first choice recently.
However, Gray has looked a little jaded at times over the last couple of matches with both Norwich and Stoke City’s left-wingers giving him a tough time from a defensive point of view.
With how much football he has played this month, and the short turnaround between the defeat at Stoke and Saturday lunchtime’s match with Huddersfield Town, it is time for a change.
Farke should consider Ayling recall
Luke Ayling has started just one of Leeds’ last five matches in the league following a disappointing start to the season in terms of his own individual form.
However, Saturday represents the perfect time to bring him back into the starting XI with Leeds likely to dominate the game, meaning defensive responsibilities will be at a minimum.
The break from regular first team action is likely to have handed Ayling some time to rest and recharge his batteries, with the vast volume of minutes clearly affecting him earlier in the season.
With Spence unlikely to be fit for next week’s trip to Leicester City, Farke needs to decide on a right-back who can cope with what the Foxes are likely to throw at Leeds down the wings.
Jamie Shackleton is another option but struggled massively at Southampton, while Gray has shown in the last two matches it is not his strongest position. Ayling may be the best bet and so 90 minutes on Saturday could be crucial for him.
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