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Kenny hails Ayling amid Leeds text message reveal
Luke Ayling and Kalvin Phillips’ close relationship is emblematic of the unity in the Leeds United dressing room.
That is according to ex-Whites goalkeeper Paddy Kenny, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about text messages exchanged by Ayling and Phillips ahead of England’s European Championship campaign.
Quoted by Leeds Live on 7th June, Phillips revealed that Ayling congratulated the midfielder via text upon hearing he had been selected in their 26-man squad.
As per Phillips, Ayling also went out and bought an England shirt emblazoned with Phillips’ name and number.
Phillips, 25, made his international debut in September 2020 and has gone on to win nine Three Lions caps.
Kenny hailed Ayling’s gesture as a touch of class and a sign of a healthy dressing room at Elland Road.
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“I thought this was great,” he told Football Insider correspondent Adam Williams.
“It shows the togetherness in the dressing room. They are close them two and I’m sure Ayling will be wearing that shirt while the Euros are on.
“It would be funny if you were in a beer garden watching the game and you saw that, wouldn’t it?”
“It’s a great touch of class and shows the respect and admiration he has for him. He’s a fantastic player and I’m sure there’s a chance he can play some part in the tournament.”
Phillips will be hoping to feature as England play Croatia in their opening group stage game later today.
Gareth Southgate’s side are also set to take on Scotland and the Czech Republic in Group D.
In other news, Leeds United set sights on signing Croatia international star.