Luke Ayling voted PFA Fans Player of the Year

If any player has personified the turnaround in Leeds United’s results then earlier this year it was Luke Ayling. He looked devastated, almost lost during his post-match interview after defeat to Nottingham Forest. The toll of having played well for the last few months without getting the results, the pressure of not having scored first in a game since December and the knowledge that you’ve just put in your worst performance as a team all season all shown bare on the right backs face. Roll on a couple of games and it was a different story, the ecstasy and passion on Ayling as he struck home the only goal after sixteen minutes against Bristol City was in stark contrast.

That goal and that victory started what has now been a run of five straight victories and five straight clean sheets. Ayling was not only the catalyst against Bristol but against Hull and Huddersfield too. Goals after five and three minutes in those games from Ayling ultimately lead to victories and Leeds United’s march back to the top of the Championship table. It is as though he was on a one-man mission to drag the team out of despair and into the Premiership. Lockdown and the break in season may have interrupted Leeds United’s flow but when football returned Ayling was just as influential.




Look back at the majority of goals that lead Leeds United to the Championship victory and often the moves were started by Luke Ayling. His runs, his defence beating passes down the wing or his ability to switch play and start moves was crucial to Leeds United’s performances this season. As a result of his magnificent performances this season Ayling has been voted the Championship PFA Bristol Street Motors Fans’ Player of the Year for 2019/20 by football fans across the country. The defender was victorious after some superb performances throughout the season, capping off the campaign by guiding Leeds United back to the top tier of English football. Liz Cope, chief marketing officer, Bristol Street Motors said…

Supporting the PFA Bristol Street Motors Fans’ Player of the Month Award is a privilege. The accolade highlights the high calibre of talent currently demonstrated by the players, while acknowledging achievements throughout the season.

The award is voted for by the fans and a lucky few have the opportunity to present the prize to the winning footballer. Allowing fans, who are the lifeblood of the game, to continue to meet their football heroes is very special, and we look forward to continuing to make these dreams a reality.

Congratulations Luke!