Town chief insists LuaLua still has a ‘key’ role to play for the Hatters

Luton attacker Kazenga LuaLua still has a ‘key’ part to play for the Hatters this season according to boss Nathan Jones

The 30-year-old has made just two Championship starts all campaign, the last coming in the 2-0 home defeat to QPR on January 12.

He has featured 20 times in all competitions, although his last outing came in the FA Cup defeat at Chelsea in January, as the former Brighton and Newcastle winger has missed out on the match day squad in recent weeks too.

Much had been expected from Lualua this term after he looked to have reignited his Town career when Jones returned last May, coming off the bench in the final four matches, scoring an absolutely crucial winner in the 1-0 success at Hull City which dramatically boosted Luton’s hopes of survival.

When asked about the forward, and whether injury or being out of favour had affected him, Jones said: “It’s been a little bit of both early on, but Kazenga is a big part of what we do.

“I spoke to him this week about the impact he can give us, not just off the bench, but the impact and he will be involved, he will be a key figure for us, as he was when I came in last time.

“He was a key, pivotal figure off the bench, but we obviously want plenty from Kazenga and I’m sure he can do that.”

With LuaLua offering something different to what the rest of Town’s squad can do, with his powerful running, trickery, and eye for a spectacular strike, Jones knows he’s a valuable member to have at Kenilworth Road.

The boss added: “Totally, but that’s what a squad does.

“Sometimes some people come out and they have to be patient, they have to keep going as when they get their opportunities they’ve got to be ready.

“You wouldn’t want it to be a double edged sword where you’re a bit down as you’re not playing, you don’t really train at the intensity then you get your opportunity then you don’t take it.

“So that’s why the environment demands things from everyone.”