Leeds United have been handed a significant boost ahead of this weekend’s trip to Norwich City, with Luke Ayling returning to first-team training.
Ayling was initially ruled out for the remainder of the Sky Bet Championship season after suffering an ankle injury against Nottingham Forest in early January.
Phil Hay from the Yorkshire Evening Post has confirmed the 26-year-old is now back in training ahead of the final two fixtures of the season.
As well as the boost of Ayling’s return, Paul Heckingbottom also has Laurens De Bock back available, with the left-back recovering from an injury that has ruled him out since March’s clash with Reading.
Whilst Ayling and De Bock add to Leeds’ options in defence, Heckingbottom remains without Tyler Roberts, who remains sidelined with a shin problem, which has delayed his Leeds debut.
The forward arrived at Elland Road late in the January transfer window, but injuries have prevented Roberts from making his debut.
Leeds head to Norwich on Saturday afternoon in 12th, looking to build on last weekend’s 2-1 victory over Barnsley.
The Whites haven’t recorded back-to-back victories since December.
The Verdict Â
Ayling has been sorely missed at Elland Road, with Leeds’ form without the right-back worrying.
His return will be a huge boost to all associated with the club, but Heckingbottom will be wary of rushing him back into action, with Leeds’ season not heading anywhere.
De Bock’s return is also a nice boost, as the left-back's presence will help to take some of the pressure off members of Leeds’ academy who have been forced to step up into the first-team.
Leeds fans… Let us know your thoughts!