Luke Ayling’s exit in January was never going to have a big impact on the pitch at Leeds United, but more so off of it given the kind of player and leader he is – and Patrick Bamford commented on it.
Ayling, 32, ended an eight-year spell at Leeds in January to join Middlesbrough on loan after struggling for minutes under Daniel Farke. He went to Michael Carrick’s side, pretty much ending his Leeds spell.
Bamford said that he won’t be coming back or signing a new contract that sees him remain at Elland Road. Indeed, Ayling has now left the club for good – and the chances are, he’ll join Boro permanently.
Losing the £500k man on the pitch was not a huge loss. He was not playing. His form had deteriorated after starring in promotion and our first year in the Premier League. Off of it though, it is a massive voice.
Bamford was asked on his My Mate’s A Footballer podcast what it has been like behind the scenes at Leeds since a voice, and an off-field presence like Ayling had left the club. Bamford said it is “strange”.
“It’s strange, different because you didn’t have Bill doing his normal geeing players up before a game. When we go out, it’s fine. The person who is loud in the changing room, is not necessarily the captain.”
Patrick Bamford on what it is like at Leeds without Luke Ayling
Losing Ayling was always going to leave a void. But, Leeds have other players that can step up off the pitch and they will have to – especially, with Liam Cooper and Stuart Dallas out of contract come June.
Pascal Struijk and Ethan Ampadu have worn the armband this season and they will have to step up. If Joe Rodon signs permanently, then he will too – as will Bamford, as one of the elder players in the side.
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