Some will be more eagerly awaiting Jesse Marsch’s team briefing than others in the Leeds United camp this week. With the exception of Luis Sinisterra, it would have been fair to expect the entire squad back at Thorp Arch on Wednesday with all eyes on the overdue return to Premier League action.
The thrashing at Brentford feels like an eternity ago and it’s easy to forget some of the narratives swimming through the United squad off the back of that loss. The right-back debate is among the topics towards the top of Marsch’s agenda this week.
From waiting all season for Luke Ayling to simply return to fitness, the conversation has suddenly swung to whether the number two should actually be starting games for Leeds. The long-serving full-back could not have done much more in the 20 or so minutes he had at Brentford and after four weeks of full training under Marsch’s gaze, Ayling will be on tenterhooks for the final decision before Sunday.
READ MORE: Luis Sinisterra's defiant Leeds United message and his 'hunger' to succeed on biggest stage
Ayling was arguably among the players who may have been better served by playing the Nottingham Forest and Manchester United matches as they were scheduled. There is a fade factor attached to his impressive cameo, while Rasmus Kristensen may have also remained out through injury.
As it is, Kristensen’s more than proven his availability with two hours for Denmark across two UEFA Nations League outings last week. Of the summer recruits, the Dane has arguably found it hardest to make a concerted impact on the pitch.
That’s why there’s even a shred of a debate in the first place. Had the 25-year-old’s form been electric before injury, he would have returned to the starting line-up with no questions asked, but Ayling’s bench impact and squad status make it a real dilemma for Marsch.
The head coach has to manage morale on a daily basis and there will be loyalty to Kristensen as a player he goes back many years with. There’s also a valid argument in chucking the former Red Bull Salzburg man straight back in to aid this long-term transition he’s making.
Leaving Kristensen out now could arguably put his development back a few steps right when he needs to kick on. As for Ayling, he has a new contract to think about and one eye on when he’s going to get that chance to earn new terms.
If Kristensen does get the nod to return to the fold against Aston Villa, Ayling may wonder when his next window of opportunity is going to emerge. Should the Dane avoid injury and a collapse in form, Ayling may well not see too many starts between now and the World Cup break.
READ NEXT:
Tired Leeds United eyes cannot help seeing a new Raphinha blossoming before them
US media deliver verdict on Tyler Adams display in Saudi Arabia draw as Leeds United star criticised
Leeds United boost after international break as stars return with spring in their step
'Animal' - Leeds United star heaped in praise after brace in Colombia comeback win
Victor Orta is keeping Leeds United wolves and Phillips-Raphinha concerns at bay
