Luke Ayling has revealed that if he could sign any defender in the world as Leeds United manager he would pick Kyle Bartley.
The 26-year-old is already familiar with the Whites as he spent last season on loan at the Yorkshire club from Swansea City.
The defender, who made 45 Championship outings and scored six goals during the loan, was recalled in the summer when Garry Monk left his role as Leeds boss at Elland Road.
Bartley has made just three appearances in all competitions this season, and only one of them was a Premier League start.
Many Leeds fans wanted the club to sign the centre-back on a permanent basis, but a deal never came to fruition.
In an interview with the club’s official website, Ayling opted against picking one of the world’s elite when asked which defender he would bring to the club.
“Kyle Bartley (he’s perfect in every sense).”
Manuel Neuer, Luka Modric and Lionel Messi were the other signings that Ayling would make if he was manager and had unlimited options.