Daniel Farke has chosen a strong starting lineup for the Leeds United vs. Norwich City match in an effort to maintain Leeds’ good form after the October international break. The German manager has decided to field the same team that secured a 2-1 victory against Bristol City before the break. This lineup includes Glen Kamara and Ethan Ampadu in the midfield, while 17-year-old Archie Gray appears to have retained his position as the right-back.
Gray made a notable impression against Bristol City, even though he was playing out of his usual position. He effectively subdued the typically troublesome Sam Bell and received praise from both fans and Farke for his defensive skills. Unless Leeds United has made an unexpected formation change, it seems that Gray, an academy prospect, has once again kept Luke Ayling out of the starting lineup. This marks the fourth time in the last five matches that the 32-year-old Ayling has been relegated to a bench role.
It was anticipated that Ayling’s playing time would decrease this season after Farke acquired Djed Spence on loan from Tottenham during the summer. However, Spence has been sidelined with an injury, leaving Ayling without any immediate competition. Nevertheless, Gray and Shackleton have been preferred in recent weeks, even though Gray missed some first-team training due to concerns about his workload during the international break.
Despite these concerns, Farke has chosen the 17-year-old Gray over Ayling, which may suggest that Ayling’s career at Elland Road is entering its twilight, especially with Spence nearing a return to fitness. Ayling last signed a contract with Leeds before their relegation to the Championship, and his current deal expires at the end of the season. If Ayling continues to spend most of his time on the bench, he might consider exploring other options.
If he can’t secure a spot in Leeds’ Championship lineup, it’s unlikely he’ll play a significant role if the team returns to the Premier League as they hope this season. It might be in the best interest of all parties involved if Ayling is allowed to end his eight-year tenure in Yorkshire, either in January or at the end of the campaign.
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