Leeds star Ayling discusses facing Villa star Coutinho

Luke Ayling told BBC Live coverage in Leeds United’s 3-3 draw against Aston Villa that it was a “good learning curve” to take on Philippe Coutinho. The Brazilian scored one goal and created another on Wednesday.

Coutinho, 29, made an immediate impact at Aston Villa – scoring on his debut against Manchester United in a 2-2 draw. On Wednesday night, he took his tally to four in just his third appearance.

Not only did he score his second goal of the season for Villa in a Barcelona shirt, but he also created two – finding Jacob Ramsey on two occasions. Villa academy product is thriving with Coutinho, he scored twice against Leeds.

Leeds are famous for their man-marking system and Ayling’s job is to keep Coutinho quiet. While he may not have made it, he reflected on his battle with the Brazilian – and called it a “good learning curve”.

“Is not!” Ayling said, when asked if he would like to dot Coutinho. “Na, we worked hard to get here. When you face players like that, it’s a good way to learn. I stuck with my mission. I felt I was fine as the game went on. “

Ayling on Coutinho: Leeds star won’t face better than Villa ace

The question mark surrounding Coutinho, when he joins Villa, is whether he can recover the form that has made him one of the best players in the world at Liverpool – and from the very beginning at the club. Barcelona.

Judging by his first three appearances, under Steven Gerrard, he is definitely getting back to that form. Of course, Leeds’ style allowed Coutinho to thrive. Ayling wouldn’t have to worry about facing people much better than him.

In other news, ‘Would be good’: Conte admits wanting 29-year-old back to Tottenham, Mourinho sold him