Luke Ayling

Luke David Ayling (born 25 August 1991) is an English professional footballer who plays for Bristol City as a defender.

Ayling was born in Lambeth, London and began his career at Arsenal joining the club at the age of 10. He was part of Arsenal youth team's double-winning side of the 2008–09 season, before signing his first professional contract in July 2009. Ayling was loaned out to Yeovil Town in March 2010 and played four matches. At the end of the season Ayling agreed a permanent deal with Yeovil after not being offered a new contract at Arsenal.

Career

Arsenal

Born in Lambeth, London, Ayling joined Arsenal at the age of 10, despite being a loyal Chelsea fan, progressing through the Arsenal youth sides, playing alongside Jack Wilshere, before signing scholarship forms with the club in the summer of 2007. Ayling featured in the Reserves whilst he was still a schoolboy, and was an integral part of Arsenal youth team's Premier Academy League and FA Youth Cup double-winning side of the 2008–09 season forming a crucial defensive partnership with Kyle Bartley. In June 2009, Ayling signed his first professional contract with Arsenal. Ayling's only call into the first team squad came during the 2009–10 season. Awarded the number 46 shirt, Ayling was an unused substitute for a dead rubber 1–0 UEFA Champions League group stage defeat to Olympiacos on 9 December 2009. Ayling departed the club in June 2010 after his contract expired.