Luke Ayling signs new one-year Middlesbrough deal and eyes Premier League return | OneFootball

Luke Ayling has signed a new one-year contract with Middlesbrough, keeping the former Leeds United promotion hero at the Championship club until 2027.

The club said in a statement that the experienced defender has extended his stay by a further year, has featured at right-back and centre-back, and has captained the side on occasions.

Ayling, 34, ended an eight-year Leeds spell in 2024, joining Boro on loan in January before making the move permanent in the summer.

He made 28 appearances in the 2024-25 campaign as Middlesbrough finished 10th. This season he has already played 38 times, with Boro second and seven games remaining.

Reflecting on his own form, Ayling acknowledged last season was not great for him and that he wanted to prove he could still perform at this level. He added that he has enjoyed this campaign.

He said the squad are trying to take the club back where it should be, and highlighted the supporters’ importance in making the run-in special.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk