Justin wants to be part of the action at Wembley this time

Young Hatters full back James Justin would love to be part of the Wembley on-field action this time around for the Hatters, should they get there.
Michael Spillane and Rossi Jarvis celebrate Luton's win at Wembley in 2009Michael Spillane and Rossi Jarvis celebrate Luton's win at Wembley in 2009
Michael Spillane and Rossi Jarvis celebrate Luton's win at Wembley in 2009

The teenager was present as an 11-year-old when Luton lifted the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy back in 2009, going on a lap of honour around the pitch prior to the game.

However, with Luton one game away from returning, ahead of tonight’s Checkatrade Trophy semi-final clash with Oxford United, Justin said: “I went when we won the Johnstone’s Paint as a fan and paraded round the pitch as we won a junior cup.

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“The atmosphere that day, 42,000, was crazy, it was a great game as well.

Hatters defender James JustinHatters defender James Justin
Hatters defender James Justin

“It would be amazing, my first season in proper professional football, going to Wembley, unbelievable. Hopefully we can win at Wembley to top off a great season with the automatics as well.”

With the carrot of a Wembley final dangling in front of them now, Justin didn’t feel he or the players would be burdened by the weight of increased expectation.

He continued: “There’s not too much pressure, we’ll just take it as another game.

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“Obviously Wembley’s at the back of your mind, but you’ve just got to keep focused, stay professional and get it done.”

Hatters defender James JustinHatters defender James Justin
Hatters defender James Justin

Although up against a tough side in League One Oxford, Justin remained confident of success, with boss Nathan Jones upping the strength of the team as the competition has worn on.

He added: “It will be a good test, but we fancy ourselves as a League One or Championship side, so we’ll go in there, not fearing them, just stick to our jobs, stick to our basics and hopefully we’ll get it done.

“If you’re a young lad and not playing now you’ll be disappointed, but it’s getting down to the business end of the competition. Everyone would love a trip down to Wembley, everyone would love a parade if we win it.”