Championship

Luke Ayling at the centre of Middlesbrough’s promotion push after new deal

Back in August, Luke Ayling feared his second full season at Middlesbrough would also be his last.

by
Chris Dunlavy
12 April 2026

Middlesbrough’s Luke Ayling has proved he’s still got a lot to offer this season

Back in August, Luke Ayling feared his second full season at Middlesbrough would also be his last.

Signed on loan from Leeds United in January 2024, the experienced defender impressed Michael Carrick sufficiently to be offered a two-year deal the following summer but endured a patchy, injury-riddled campaign as Boro limped home in tenth place.
To make matters worse, Carrick - a staunch supporter - was then sacked and replaced by Rob Edwards.
Yet after an outstanding campaign at the heart of Middlesbrough’s defence, the 34-year-old has now signed a 12-month extension and been described as “m...

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