Brabin left to lament Jake’s Welsh U21 date

The versatile youngster has been named in the Wales U21 squad for their U21 European Championships qualifying games against Montenegro and the Czech Republic at Wrexham’s Racecourse ground on Saturday, October 8, and Tuesday, October 11.

As a result he will miss Luton’s trips to Kidderminster and Ebbsfleet unless more international calls deluge Kenilworth Road.

Brabin said: “It’s nice for him but it doesn’t make life any easier for us.

“I think he misses two games, unless two others get an international call in between now and then.”

The boss admitted he may well have to look at the loan market again as a result as he will be without a recognised and fit left-back.

Brabin said: “It’s something we are going to have to have a look at with Jake going as we haven’t got a left-back at the club at the moment.”

Meanwhile, a story on Skysports.com this week linked the 20-year-old with a move away from Kenilworth Road.

It claimed: “The likes of Peterborough, Millwall and Ipswich have all previously followed Howells closely.

“Now interest is increasing with the knowledge that Howells is out of-contract next summer.

“Howells, who has just been called into Wales’ Under-21 squad, is now believed to be being watched by Barnsley and Preston.

“Luton are determined to hold on to Howells, but they know the lure of League football could be hard to resist.”

The claims were dismissed by managing director Gary Sweet this week in our sister papers the News/Gazette, but Brabin admitted he wouldn’t be surprised if there was interest.

He added: “I haven’t heard anything no, but I’m not surprised as he is a good player.”