Due to Adam Armstrong’s lone goal in the Championship loss to Southampton on Sunday afternoon at Wembley, Leeds will have to wait another season to compete in the competition.

Clearly disappointed by the loss, many Leeds players expressed their dismay. Some of the players who were seen crying on the Wembley pitch following the 1-0 loss included Archie Gray, Ethan Ampadu, and Ilia Gruev.Luke Ayling was in attendance as he traveled to London from the south to watch his parent club play Southampton in the play-off final. Since moving on loan to Middlesbrough in January, Ayling has been a star.

When questioned about his future by TalkSPORT prior to the match, the defender—whose contract with Leeds expires on June 30—said there would be some news on Monday and made a suggestion about leaving the team.

Luke Ayling hints at imminent Leeds United departure

It comes after rumors circulated that Ayling, who turned down the opportunity to sign with Sheffield United, who were relegated under Chris Wilder, would be Michael Carrick’s first permanent summer signing.

The 32-year-old Ayling joined Middlesbrough and has made 19 appearances for Carrick’s team. He has contributed eight assists from right-back while maintaining a strong defensive line.

When questioned on a permanent relocation, Ayling stated on Sunday that there would be news “tomorrow”: I had a terrific time at Middlesbrough, but I believe there will be news in the next few days.

“I had a great time performing for the gaffer; the guys in the dressing room were awesome.” Ayling stated, “I think there will be good news coming tomorrow,” in reference to rumors that he is about to sign a contract with Middlesbrough.

Which Leeds players are expected to join Ayling in leaving Leeds?

Many are not under contract. While decisions need to be made regarding Cody Drameh, Liam Cooper, Lew Bate, Jamie Shackleton, Ian Poveda, and Sam Byram, Robin Koch has agreed to relocate permanently to Frankfurt.

Since none of them have a contract left, it appears that they will all be able to transfer for free.

Out of the five players Jon Newsome listed as potential departures, Crysencio Summerville and Willy Gnonto being the obvious choices.

He went on to say that Dan James and Ethan Ampadu would draw interest and that Joe Rodon wouldn’t be signing on a permanent basis. James might even wind up at Southampton at the end of the summer, according to Newsome.