How 'amazing' Middlesbrough sessions are inspiring Luke Ayling's future plans

Luke Ayling is already taking notes from Michael Carrick ahead of a potential career in management. The Middlesbrough defender admits getting into coaching is something he would be interested in doing - and feels there are few better to learn from that his current manager.

The former Leeds United defender has worked under the legendary Marcelo Bielsa while at Elland Road, but says Carrick's training sessions have made a big impact on him since moving the Riverside almost a year ago. The 33-year-old is still very much focused on his playing career for now, but has revealed coaching is something that is on his radar for the future.

Ayling has featured in every single Championship game for Boro so far this season, starting all but the 3-3 draw at Norwich City last month, but has revealed that he would relish the chance to help younger players develop when the time comes to hang up his boots.

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“Yeah, I definitely want to give it a go," he told former Leeds team-mate Patrick Bamford and comedian Joe Wilkinson on the 'My Mate's a Footballer' podcast. "I think I just want to be chucked in at the deep end somewhere and go and do it.

"The coaching side I’ll have to do - I’m still doing my badges, working on them and learning all the time. But, for me, it’s more the management of people - I enjoy people, I enjoy sitting down and having chats and helping all age groups.

"I think that’s something I definitely want to do and test myself in a few years. I think I’d want to jump straight in. I’m always listening and always learning. Obviously I’m still playing and that’s my main focus, but I’m always taking things on board from the gaffer.

"I think his sessions are amazing and there are definitely things that I would take with me into my management career if I am given the opportunity.”