One Middlesbrough ace stood out more than any other in the 1-1 draw away at Ipswich Town on the weekend.
Michael Carrick‘s side went ahead in the encounter through top scorer Emmanuel Latte Lath, who netted his 14th of the season across all competitions.
Though, just 10 minutes later they were pegged back and it ultimately ended in a draw at Portman Road, which leaves Boro all but resigned to another year in the Championship.
Notwithstanding that, it was an impressive display from the visitors, who were up against a side battling for automatic promotion.
One ‘important’ ace, whose performance went under the radar, particularly stood out in the stalemate.
Luke Ayling impresses in Ipswich Town draw
Luke Ayling joined the Riverside outfit in January, on loan from fellow Championship side Leeds United.
Since arriving on Teesside, the 32-year-old defender has enjoyed a productive run in the team and has been one of Middlesbrough’s most important players.
That notion was only amplified on Saturday, as he produced a battling display against the division’s top scorers. Here are his impressive statistics from the game, as per Sofascore.
- 90 touches
- 3 key passes
- 1 assist
- 77% duels won
- 4 clearances
- 3 tackles
Ayling’s loan deal expires at the end of May and his contract at Elland Road is up this summer, so he’s expected to become available on a free transfer, which would represent excellent business for Carrick and his chiefs.
Journalist reacts to Luke Ayling display v Ipswich Town
TeessideLive journalist Craig Johns awarded Ayling a seven-match rating, with only two players scoring higher.
“A mixed performance from Ayling,” Johns wrote.
“Going forward he did really well. He set up the Boro goal with another pinpoint cross and set up a couple of other chances too. Defensively, it was a tough afternoon against Sarmiento who had the beating of him often. But it didn’t ever prove costly.”
Ayling’s loan has clearly been a successful one and his experience will be vital to Boro in their promotion push next term if he does indeed return on a permanent basis.
The former Leeds defender has a promotion on his CV and Carrick’s side will benefit from his know-how and professionalism.
Ayling has Premier League experience, too, meaning he could be part of Middlesbrough‘s long-term goals if they are to realise their top-flight hopes.