Leeds United might get what they want...

Leeds United might get what they want after seven-month wait and three new… Read More 👇

Leeds United may finally get what they’ve been waiting for after a seven-month wait, with three potential debutants set to make their mark. Luke Ayling, a long-serving player for Leeds, spent last season on loan at Middlesbrough, where his connection to the club grew even stronger. Over his eight years with Leeds, Ayling made 268 appearances, surpassing the likes of John Sheridan, Stuart Dallas, and Lee Bowyer in terms of games played. Despite his significant contributions, Ayling never had the chance to bid a proper farewell to the Elland Road faithful. His final appearance was in an FA Cup match against Peterborough United, where he received a pointed applause, but it wasn’t the grand send-off many felt he deserved.

Ayling’s attachment to the club was evident as he spent time with fans, including a memorable stint behind the bar at The Old Peacock before a game against Millwall in March. He also joined the fans at Wembley during the Championship play-off final, further cementing his bond with the supporters. As he prepares to return to Elland Road in a professional capacity, it is sure to be an emotional occasion, both for Ayling and the fans, as he steps onto the pitch seven months after his loan departure.

Leeds United manager Daniel Farke has introduced three young players to the squad over the summer: James Debayo, Sam Chambers, and Charlie Crew. While only Crew made it to the bench in Saturday’s match, there is a possibility that one or more of these youngsters could make their debut in the upcoming game, especially given the expected squad rotation. Chambers faces stiff competition for a spot, but Debayo and Crew might have a chance to feature in defense and midfield, respectively.

Max Wober and Brenden Aaronson are also set to make their first starts since April 2023. Both players have faced criticism from the Elland Road crowd in recent matches, particularly as substitutes. However, they are likely to start together in the upcoming game, and it will be interesting to see how the fans react and how they perform. Aaronson showed some promising signs in Saturday’s match, and both players could use a strong performance to win back the support of the fans.

One of Leeds’ key challenges will be containing Emmanuel Latte Lath, a player who gave them trouble last season. The Ivorian forward scored two goals in each of the league matches against Leeds and netted a penalty in Middlesbrough’s opening day win. If Leeds want to secure a positive result, they will need to find a way to keep Lath quiet.

Despite it being a cup match, Leeds have a chance to send a strong message by putting in a solid performance against Middlesbrough. Last season’s encounters with Michael Carrick’s side were thrilling and closely contested, highlighting Boro’s strength at this level. Although both teams are likely to rotate their squads, this match presents an opportunity for Leeds to make a statement early in the season. After a disappointing draw on the opening day, where they conceded three goals despite dominating Portsmouth, a win against Boro would be a timely confidence boost and a signal of their intentions for the season ahead.