Leeds United picked up a crucial three points in their quest to reach the Premier League, as they ran out 1-0 winners over Swansea City on Sunday. 

Pablo Hernandez's goal a minute from time proved to be the difference on the day, as Leeds took a sizeable step towards the top-flight.

The Whites are now sat top of the Championship table, and are six points clear of third-placed Brentford with three matches remaining in this year's campaign.

One player that has played a key role in their bid for promotion into the Premier League is Luke Ayling, who has been a regular in the starting XI this season.

The full-back has made 35 appearances in all competitions this term, and has chipped in with four goals and five assists for the Yorkshire-based side.

It was Ayling's lung-busting run that played a part in Hernandez's winner against Swansea, as his cross was deflected into the path of the Leeds playmaker to fire home the only goal of the game.

/CCjY2ybp1A3/">Ayling took to Instagram following the win over the Swans, and was clearly pleased by Leeds' fighting spirit until the very end.

Ayling's Leeds team-mates Kalvin Phillips and Tyler Roberts were quick to respond to his social post after the win, and labelled him as a 'big game player' and 'massive game player'.

Leeds are set to return to action on Thursday evening when they take on struggling Barnsley at Elland Road, in a match they'll be expected to pick up three points from.

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The Verdict:

What a player he has been for them this season.

I had my doubts as to whether Ayling would be a regular in the Leeds squad this season, but he's been nothing short of brilliant for Marcelo Bielsa's side this term.

If he can replicate the performances in the Championship, then the Whites will definitely surprise a few teams in the Premier League next season.

He's certainly a big game player!