LUKE Ayling's future beyond the next nine Championship games is unclear but Michael Carrick says there are no signs whatsoever of that uncertainty affecting the Leeds United loanee, who is "all in" at Middlesbrough.

Ayling linked up with Boro on loan in January until the end of the season, when his Leeds exit is set to be confirmed with his contract due to expire.

With that in mind, the experienced full-back joined Boro in the hope of earning a longer-term deal on Teesside - and he's done his chances no harm with two excellent displays in the wins over QPR and Birmingham City in recent days.

"You're always playing for something and as it stands at the moment that's obviously what's next," said Carrick.

"Looking at him, that's not at the forefront of his mind at all. He's all in, he's desperate to do well and win games for us.

"We'll see, that will play out how it's going to play out over the next few months."

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Ayling - known by his teammates as Bill - has quickly established himself as a key figure in Carrick's side, having started 11 straight games since making his debut. And it's not just on the pitch that he's made an impact.

"He's a solid character, he's got that personality that rubs off on others and he's quite commanding around the dressing room," said Carrick.

"It's important to have that balance. Everyone can't be like that but you need certain boys to do that. He's played a big part in it.

"I think Bill has shown his experience really. He's been in this situation, he's seen it, he knows what it takes.

"His personality and character rubs off on others and as a team in the last couple of games the boys with the experience have shown it and used it. That's vital at this stage when you're going through something like this and the stages you got through at the end of the season.

"Experience can be a beautiful thing if you use it in the right way. Luke is definitely doing that at the moment."