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Marcelo Bielsa has claimed that Leeds United’s Luke Ayling is a quiet player that leads by example on the pitch.

Ayling, 29, is an ever-present in the team’s defence, and has enjoyed a superb individual campaign in the Premier League so far.

The right-back always seems like a lively character in interviews, someone who is popular with his teammates, and has a great work ethic.

However, Bielsa suggests that the English full-back is slightly reserved, but has a huge impact with his leadership.

With Leeds skipper Liam Cooper suspended for the next three Premier League games, it seems likely that stand-in captain Ayling will wear the armband in the upcoming fixtures like he’s previously done earlier in the season.

“Ayling has all the capabilities to be a leader and conductor for the team. For me, he has the most important virtue – he doesn’t speak too much and he acts in the way it should be, leads by example,” Bielsa said, as quoted by Leeds Live.

TBR’s View:

Leeds have a main group of players that are performing on the Premier League stage just as effectively as they did in the title-winning Championship season, and Ayling is one of the several success stories.

After leaving Arsenal in the early stages in his career, it seemed like a long way back to the top flight after spending a lot of time in League One.

But he’s worked his way up the football ladder, and looks a natural in the top division.

He’s an experienced defender that is so reliable with his performances and always gives it 100 per cent, so it’s to see why he’s so highly respected.