Tyler Roberts is back available for Leeds United for this weekend’s clash with Barnsley, whilst Luke Ayling will feature for the club’s under-23s next week.  

Leeds have been without the pair throughout the entirety of this season, with Roberts’ last outing coming in the draw with Aston Villa back in April and Ayling not featuring since the play-off semi-final defeat to Derby County.

Marcelo Bielsa has told his pre-match press conference today – as per The Athletic’s Phil Hay – that Roberts is in contention to make his return at Barnsley this Sunday.

In addition to that, Ayling is making good progress and will make an under-23 appearance in time – as Roberts did last week against Crystal Palace.

Roberts, who can feature in two or three attacking positions, scored three goals for the Whites last season, as well as providing five assists in Bielsa’s maiden season in the Championship.

His best football did come in the No.10 role, although all three of his strikes – a brace against Preston and a long-range effort at Hull – came when he was playing as the central striker.

Currently, Patrick Bamford and Eddie Nketiah are competing for the No.9 role at Leeds.

The Verdict  

This is a big boost for Leeds United ahead of their trip to Barnsley and beyond.

Roberts is a versatile attacking option that can offer Bielsa so much, whilst Ayling is his vice-captain and someone who will help out a lot in the dressing room.

Honestly, Roberts won’t feature at the weekend from the off and Ayling won’t walk back into the team.

But, it is a long season and they will play an important role.

Thoughts? Let us know!