Manager Mick Harford says he won't be taking any notice of Bournemouth and Rotherham once the Hatters set out on their long journey to League Two survival tomorrow.

As he prepares his players for Saturday's opening day clash with Port Vale at Kenilworth Road, the Luton Town boss said, that despite starting the season 13 points adrift of their two relegation rivals, their fate is still very much in their own hands.

He said: "I've got to be perfectly honest and I've said this to the players - I'm not bothered about Rotherham and Bournemouth.

"If we go about our job and show the right attitude and the right commitment, the right work ethic, allied with the ability and technical side of it, we can win football matches.

"It's down to us, it's got nothing to do with Rotherham and Bournemouth. Obviously they are our nearest opponents, but we'll just be concerned with how we approach the season.

"The key to us staying up is a good start and good home form. I honestly believe that if we only lose one or two games at home this season, we'll stay up."

After a tireless summer behind the scenes, Harford also says it will be nice to concentrate on matters on the field and, once again paid tribute to the club's long suffering fans, and has vowed to repay their loyal support.

He said: "I'm glad we're finally here. It has been a long, long road. Everyone here at the football club has been working all the hours that God sends to get the club out of administration, locate players and work to bring them into the club, and it's been a magnificent effort by everyone.

"But also those loyal fans, who have been fantastic. They've stuck by this club through thick and thin, they've had a rough time and deserve better than what has been served up to them in the past few years but, I'm going to repay them."