Mateusz Klich has applauded Leeds defender Luke Ayling for his performance in Wednesday’s 2-2 draw at Old Trafford against Manchester United – with the right-back earning praise from a number of his teammates on Instagram, too.
The club is in turmoil. The Leeds board is yet to bring in a replacement for Jesse Marsch after the American was sacked on Monday, following Sunday’s loss to Nottingham Forest. We sit perilously close to the relegation zone in the top tier.
But the point against Erik ten Hag’s side at least sees Leeds go a point above the drop zone. Willy Gnonto gave Leeds the lead, his fourth goal for Leeds. Then, he freed up Crysencio Summerville and his cross was deflected into the net.
Manchester United came roaring back in the second half. Ten Hag’s substitutes made the difference. Marcus Rashford continues his goalscoring form with a header. Jadon Sancho came off the bench to curl an effort past Illan Meslier.
But it was a superb display given the behind-the-scenes issues at Leeds. Ayling was probably the pick of the bunch for Leeds, starring on the right while wearing the captain’s armband in Liam Cooper’s absence. He posted on Instagram.
Klich applauds Leeds defender Ayling in draw against Manchester United
WhoScored report that Ayling made an incredible 12 tackles on Wednesday night. Leeds, throughout the 90 minutes, made a total of 30 tackles – including six subs. Leeds were allowed to make a sixth, with Pascal Struijk’s concussion.
An entire 40% of Leeds tackled were from the right-back. Not only that, but he made two interceptions, four clearances and a block. He even blasted a shot from all of 25 yards narrowly over the bar. Ayling was superb for Leeds last night.
Klich was among those to respond to Ayling’s Instagram – describing his performance as “strong”. Robin Koch was very impressed, posting “what a performance”. A number of others also praised the Leeds vice captain.
