Luke Ayling delivers two-word injury update on Instagram, after return for Leeds 23’s on Monday

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Luke Ayling has posted a two-word injury update to Leeds United fans on Instagram after the defender made his comeback on Monday night.

Ayling, 30, has missed the last nine Premier League matches after suffering a knee injury in the dying moments against Newcastle United in September.

The injury was only expected to keep him out for a few games but like Patrick Bamford, it has taken a lot longer than expected to overcome.

Both Ayling and Bamford featured on Monday night as the duo continued their recoveries. Ayling was handed 45 minutes against Manchester City.

The Under-23 side lost the match 3-2, but it was a bit step in the right direction for both – with Bamford seeing out the entire 90 minutes.

Leeds fans have waited with bated breath to hear how Ayling had responded to his return – and he has now issued an update on Instagram.

Ayling on Instagram: Leeds star’s return improves balance of side

Bringing Ayling back into the side allows Stuart Dallas to go back into one of his more-favoured positions – most-likely to be midfield when Ayling is fit.

The right-back, having played 45 minutes against Manchester City, is not expected to be a part of the side that faces Crystal Palace on Monday night.

But when Leeds travel to the Capital ohead of Sunday’s clash against Brentford, he could well be involved – and he might even start the game.

It would see Dallas return to midfield with Junior Firpo on the left – and it might mean dropping Adam Forshaw.

Or, Marcelo Bielsa could play a three-man midfield – Kalvin Phillips sitting, and two workhorses in Forshaw and Dallas in front of the England star.