The future of Leeds United right-back Luke Ayling may be in doubt with Cody Drameh impressing out on loan.
In the January transfer window, it became apparent that the young full-back wanted to leave the Whites in order to play more games. At the time, this seemed to draw some criticism from former manager Marcelo Bielsa, but he did allow Drameh to leave.
He ended up joining Cardiff City on loan and has taken his chance with both hands, receiving plenty of plaudits during his time in Wales already.
While this is great news for Drameh, it could be a big concern to Ayling – TIF has taken a look at why exactly.
Orta plan falls into place
At the time of Drameh’s departure, Leeds were in the midst of an injury crisis and the threat of relegation was looming. Because of this, Bielsa told the Daily Mail: “I did not think he needed to play games elsewhere. He was a player who was very necessary with all of the absences we have.”
Despite that, his temporary exit was sanctioned by Bielsa and Victor Orta. Since then, the Whites have done just fine in the Premier League and now look all but set to retain their top-flight status.
Drameh has also flourished. Indeed, his brilliant displays have seen him dubbed a ‘freak’ by WalesOnline, while more recently, he has been nominated for Cardiff’s Player of the Season award.
Taking that into account, he could return to Leeds next season and challenge for the right-back position – thus vindicating the club’s call.
Does Cody Drameh deserve a chance in the Leeds team next season?
Yes
No
Ayling situation
While one right-back may be flourishing, another is not playing quite as well. For instance, Jesse Marsch’s men picked up a key 3-0 away win over relegation rivals Watford last time out, but not every player was quite on top form.
Indeed, Sky Sports pundit David Phillips was highly critical of Ayling for one moment where he allowed Cucho Hernandez a chance at goal.
He said of Ayling’s efforts (via MOT Leeds News): “Awful defending from Ayling. Far too cheap there to allow Hernandez the space.”
And it’s not the first time he’s been criticised this season either, with fans left fuming after the defender struggled in a game against West Ham United in January.
TIF Verdict…
Ayling is now 30 years old and the club may well be planning for a future without him – especially as his contract will have just one year left by the time we reach the summer.
Drameh, on the other hand, is still only 20, and when you look at how the two players have performed over the past six months, it’s clear to see which player is on the rise.
Taking everything into account, if and when Drameh returns to the club in the summer, Ayling may well be having a few nervous glances over his shoulder.
In other news: ‘Would never have believed it’ – Journalist left stunned since ‘massive call’ at Leeds