Pontus Jansson has paid tribute to teammate Luke Ayling in an emotional Twitter post after the 27-year-old made his 100th appearance for the Whites. 

Ayling, who has been the subject of criticism from fans in recent weeks, hit the milestone during the club's crucial 2-1 win against Swansea City on Wednesday night and the Swede was full of praise for him after the game.

"I’ve said it so many times, this team is nothing without this man," Jansson wrote.

"The spirit you create and to also have you there standing up for your mates is unbelievable.

"Congrats Luke! You are the heart of the team! ❤️❤️"

The match was just 20 minutes old when Jansson opened the scoring, finishing brilliantly into the bottom corner after a scramble in the Swansea box.

And it was 2-0 just 14 minutes later as Jack Harrison headed home Ezgjan Alioski's cross at the near post to ease the Elland Road nerves.

Swansea narrowed the scoreline late on when Oli McBurnie converted from the spot following a clumsy Ayling foul but the Whites held on for a crucial three points.

With promotion competitors Norwich City crashing to a 3-1 defeat to Preston North End, Marcelo Bielsa's side reclaimed their place at the top of the second-tier table.

The verdict 

The team spirit within the Leeds squad this season is rather remarkable.

Ultimately it will prove to be a big factor in whether or not they win promotion to the Premier League so if this mood continues it is hard to see how they will miss out.

It is the one aspect of the club that Bielsa does not really have control over so this will be great for him to see as well.