Luke Ayling reveals delight for Leeds United's international history makers Liam Cooper and Gjanni Alioski

Liam Cooper and Gjanni Alioski will both be appearing at Euro 2020 next summer.
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Luke Ayling has revealed his delight for Leeds United team-mates Liam Cooper and Gjanni Alioski following their recent international accomplishments.

The Whites duo have had cause for celebration over the last week after the pair made history with Scotland and North Macedonia respectively over the November break.

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United winger turned left-back Alioski helped his country to a 1-0 victory over Georgia, which saw his side qualify for Euro 2020.

Scotland celebrate their play-off win over Serbia. (Getty)Scotland celebrate their play-off win over Serbia. (Getty)
Scotland celebrate their play-off win over Serbia. (Getty)

It is the first time North Macedonia have ever made it to a major tournament with Goran Pandev’s goal enough to secure victory in Tbilisi.

Leeds skipper Cooper, meanwhile, was an unused substitute as Steve Clarke’s men travelled to face Serbia in a one-off game which saw the winner progress.

Scotland took the lead through Ryan Christie before an injur- time header from Real Madrid’s Luka Jovic forced extra-time.

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The encounter went to penalties with goalkeeper David Marshall the hero for the Tartan Army as he saved Aleksandar Mitrovic’s effort.

It sparked wild celebrations north of the border as Scotland secured passage into next summer’s European Championships.

The result earned a spot at a finals tournament for the first time since 1998 and ended 22 years of hurt for fans.

Cooper’s team have been drawn in Group D alongside bitter rivals England, as well as Croatia and the Czech Republic.

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Scotland will host a game at Hampden Park while the showdown with the Three Lions will take place at Wembley in June.

North Macedonia will face the Netherlands, Ukraine and Austria in Group C.

“It’s unreal for the pair of them,” said Leeds team-mate Ayling.

“They’re both playing for countries who haven’t been at major tournaments for a long time, so for them to be part of it, it is brilliant.

“I’m pleased for them, what a great experience it will be for them to go to Euro 2020 and play against some of the best countries in Europe.

“It’s a massive achievement for them.”

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