HAVING agreed to remain with Middlesbrough on a permanent basis, Luke Ayling is looking forward to his first glimpse of two of the defensive team-mates that were sidelined during his loan spell on Teesside.

While Ayling spent almost four months in Boro’s first team after joining on loan from Leeds United in January, he did not get the chance to play or train with either Tommy Smith or Darragh Lenihan.

Smith ruptured his Achilles during last October’s 1-0 win over Birmingham and was forced to sit out the remainder of the campaign, while Lenihan has been sidelined since suffering ankle and Achilles damage last September.

The experienced duo were expected to be key performers for Boro last season, and should be influential figures when they return next term.

The pair should both be able to play a full part in pre-season later this summer, and Ayling is looking forward to working with them as Boro attempt to maintain the momentum that was generated in the final couple of months of last season.

“There was a lot of injuries last season, and next year, a lot of those boys will be coming back in,” said the right-back, who signed a two-year deal on Teesside last week. “You’ve got the likes of Tommy and Darragh - I've not had a chance to train with or play with them yet.

“I'm excited for that and can't wait to get back in for pre-season. We finished the season so well, only losing one game in the last 12, which is brilliant. I think all the boys will be excited to get back in.

“At the minute, of course we're enjoying our breaks around the world and spending time with family. But I know the boys and once we get back in, it will be straight down to work and building towards that first game of the season to get a good start.”

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As well as looking forward to welcoming new defensive colleagues to the fray, Ayling is also excited by the prospect of renewing his relationship with Emmanuel Latte Lath next season.

The full-back provided eight assists during his half-season on Teesside, the majority of which resulted in goals for Latte Lath.

The Ivorian was in sensational form in the final couple of months of the campaign, scoring eight goals in his final six outings, and the supply line from Ayling down Boro’s right-hand side is likely to be a key element of his attacking threat again next term.

“I love playing with him (Latte Lath) personally,” said the defender. “I always know if I put a cross in, he is going to be somewhere in the box. He's so hungry to score goals. And then, just as a person, I got on with him really well.”

Boro’s attacking options will be increased at the start of pre-season, with Josh Coburn due to return to action after missing the bulk of the second half of last season because of a pectoral problem.

“Next season, we'll have Josh (Coburn) coming back too,” said Ayling, who re-signed for Boro despite alternative interest from a number of clubs including Sheffield United. “He's a young lad who spent a long time out injured, but he's a good lad who will hopefully be able to get on the end of a few of my crosses as well.”