Leeds United probably need to be flawless in their final three games of the season to stand a good chance of automatic-promotion – with Middlesbrough the first team up for Daniel Farke’s side on Monday.
Leeds have been dealt a blow ahead of the game. Connor Roberts was one of the only positives from the defeat to Blackburn last weekend.
That could mean Archie Gray returns to the role at the Riverside Stadium. Unfortunately, Gray’s inexperience appears to have been catching up with the 18-year-old recently. He looked weary towards the end of the game against Blackburn.
Unfortunately, Leeds do not have too many others options for that role, particularly with Farke seemingly preferring to use Sam Byram on the left.
Daniel Farke may wish he still had one player available to him for Leeds United’s run-in
Another player who will not be playing any part in Monday’s game is Luke Ayling, with the right-back technically on loan at Middlesbrough for the rest of the season.
Ayling has already done us a big favour in recent weeks, setting up Boro’s equaliser against Ipswich Town.
But perhaps it is fair to wonder what impact the 32-year-old could have had had he remained at Elland Road beyond the January transfer window.
Everyone could understand why Ayling moved on. He fell down the pecking order as the first-half of the season went on; not even making the match day squad seven times before leaving.
And in truth, Farke was largely vindicated for his selection decisions at the time. Leeds’ form from midway through the campaign brought them back into contention for the top two.
Gray was a revelation in the right-back role. And Roberts looked to be an incredibly astute signing given that he was promoted just last season.
However, what Leeds would give to have Ayling in the ranks right now.
Luke Ayling could have made a big difference in final three games
Of course, it is important to not rewrite history and suggest that Ayling was at his peak when he left.
But he was someone who rarely let the side down. And his experience could have made a big difference as this young side look to get themselves across the line.
Ayling scored a couple of huge goals the last time we were promoted. And he scored the opener in that crucial game against Newcastle late last season.
It is hard to criticise Farke for letting Ayling go. But with Leeds stumbling right now and losing a player of Roberts’ quality to injury, it would have been massive if the Whites boss could turn to the vice-captain for one more run in the side.