Luke Ayling has completed his move to Middlesbrough from Leeds United on loan until the end of the season and Liam Cooper has responded on Twitter – sending an emotional message to ‘Bill’.
After seven and a half years at Elland Road and almost 300 appearances in all competitions, Ayling has left Leeds. One of the best bits of business since the turn of the century, he has earned iconic status.
Bought by Garry Monk for a bargain fee of £250k in 2016, Ayling proved to be crucial in promotion under Marcelo Bielsa – who he thanks in his statement on social media. He stayed key in the Premier League.
But this season, Ayling’s game time has dipped with his form somewhat questionable over the past 12 months. Archie Gray, Jamie Shackleton and others preferred on the right of defence to the 32-year-old.
Now, the former Arsenal and Bristol City man has left the club to go on loan to Middlesbrough. With his contract expiring at the end of the season, he acknowledges in his statement that this could be the end.
Liam Cooper reacts as Luke Ayling confirms Leeds United exit
Alongside Ayling, Cooper has been a fellow stalwart of the club. A player that has been with Ayling through thick and thin – the duo captain, and vice captain of Leeds. Also, out of contract in June.
He too will have to make a decision on his future, with Stoke said to be interested this month. Phil Hay says it is unlikely that Cooper, along with Ayling and Stuart Dallas, will sign new deals at Elland Road.
But Cooper, putting aside his future, paid tribute to Ayling – how they have been through it all together and that he would rather no-one else in the trenches with him. An emotional post, from the skipper.
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