Here are the Leeds United morning headlines on Friday 19th March 2021.
Ayling's England explanation given
Gareth Southgate named his latest England squad yesterday, as the Three Lions get ready to face San Marino, Poland and Albania in World Cup qualifying ahead of 2022's tournament in Qatar.
There had been strong suggestions that Leeds United duo Patrick Bamford and Luke Ayling would be awarded call-ups, on the back of strong seasons for the Whites.
However, as Leeds fans scoured the England press release, neither player's name was to be found. Instead, Kalvin Phillips was the sole Leeds man named amongst the group.
Speaking following the announcement, Southgate revealed his thinking behind the decision.
"It's simply that we think Reece James and Kieran Tripper have had exceptional seasons, really, with their clubs and Kyle Walker is in great form with Manchester City.
"We have got other players in the league who are also playing well in that position - Cash at Aston Villa and Ayling at Leeds. We have got two very good right-backs in the under-21s.
"It's a remarkable position of strength for us."
Leeds fans think they have spotted Forshaw
Long-term injury absentee Adam Forshaw has been out of action for well over a year, with many believing he would not play another senior game for Leeds United.
However, a tweet from Leeds United fan account @AllStatsArentWe seemed to show Forshaw in a screenshot from a the team's pre-Fulham training video.
This is likely to spark speculation surrounding a return to fitness for the midfielder.
Only a few weeks ago, Marcelo Bielsa confirmed Forshaw was working hard to get back to match fitness, but would likely be blooded in the U23s first.
Leeds' U23 side only have four matches remaining between now and the end of the season, so time is running out for him to get back up to speed, however if he has been involved in training, that will serve as a massive boost to all concerned.
Newcastle snare reported Leeds target
Newcastle United have beaten supposed transfer rivals Leeds United to the signature of 18-year-old English defender Matthew Bondswell on a free transfer.
The former England youth international was released by German side RB Leipzig in January with a view to finding a club in the UK, as per Shields Gazette, and Newcastle have this morning confirmed the signing.
It is reported that Leeds and West Ham United were also in the running for the teenager, which would tally with the Whites' recent U23s recruitment drive.
