Luke Ayling’s comments may help Middlesbrough make a key transfer decision on Friday.
Luke Ayling has been a revelation since his original move to Boro midway through last season.
The defender joined Middlesbrough on loan from Leeds United in January as Michael Carrick aimed to bring in some much-needed cover at right-back following an injury to Tommy Smith.
Ayling is an experienced player who has shone in the Premier League previously but few Boro fans likely expected him to perform so well in his debut campaign at the Riverside.
The Teessiders lost just one of their last 12 Championship matches that term and the Englishman was a key reason why, assisting a staggering eight goals in 19 matches despite playing as a full-back.
The 32-year-old has now returned to the North East on a free transfer this summer and remains a key figure at the club.
Ayling was dubbed Middlesbrough’s best player vs Portsmouth, performing very well out of position at centre-back for the Reds.
Middlesbrough should rival Derby County for Liam Cooper
Now, with transfer deadline day upon us, Ayling will be hopeful Boro sign a centre-back so he can once again take up his natural role at right-back.
Middlesbrough are confident about signing George Edmundson from Ipswich Town but a better option may be available today.
As reported by journalist Darren Witcoop on X/Twitter, Derby County, along with another unnamed Championship club, are in the race to sign Liam Cooper.
Cooper is currently a free agent and Carrick should look to reunite the centre-back and Ayling on Teesside this season.
Luke Ayling tells Middlesbrough what Liam Cooper can offer
Cooper joined Leeds from Chesterfield in 2014, with Ayling moving to Elland Road two years later.
The pair spent seven years playing alongside each other in the Peacocks’ backline before the latter joined Middlesbrough.
Now, with Boro in need of centre-back reinforcements, a move for Cooper could be fantastic for Carrick.
His connection with Ayling should make the Scotsmans’ transition into the Boro backline much easier and he is also, as already mentioned, available for nothing.
Cooper might be 33 but he would bring a wealth of experience to the club, with Ayling having already told the Reds what his former captain can offer.
Speaking to LUTV in March 2019, he said: “He’s been our captain and been a rock at the back. I think now players and fans are starting to see what a big player he is for us.”