LUKE Ayling has revealed he is "close" to signing a permanent deal at the Riverside, with Michael Carrick saying Middlesbrough have got under the full-back's skin since joining on loan from Leeds United in January.

Ayling brought to an end his hugely impressive loan stint with two assists - taking his tally to eight in 11 games - in the 3-1 win over Watford on Saturday.

But it looks unlikely to be the 32-year-old's final game in a Boro shirt, with Carrick confirming afterwards that he wants Ayling to stay on Teesside - and the defender suggesting that there's every chance that will happen.

“I think things are close and I’m really excited about what the future holds," Ayling told BBC Tees.

"I don’t think it’s done yet, so I can’t say too much. But the last four months, I’ve loved being out there.

"It’s a great bunch of lads and I’ve loved being a part of it. It’s a young group, but that’s allowed me to come in and put my stamp on it. I’ve loved every moment of it. I was a little bit nervous when I first came because it had been a few months since I played.

"But from the first training session, the boys just took to me and I’ve loved every minute of it. We’ve fallen short of the play-offs this year, but it makes things exciting for next year because we’ve come so close. If we can keep our key players fit next year then I’m sure we’ll be up there.”

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Ayling played every game other than the defeat against Leeds - when he was ineligible - since joining in January and has established himself as a hugely important player for Carrick, who hopes the defender is part of his squad next season.

“We’re trying and do something if we can," said the head coach.

"It’s not always straightforward, but certainly, with the impact that Luke has had, it’s something that we’re trying to do.

"It looks like the club has got under his skin, and I won’t hide away from that.

"It’s obvious how well he’s done and how much the supporters have taken to him. He’s an important part of the group, the way he is, his personality, that's pretty clear to see."