It's been a season that not many thought they would ever get to witness, I certainly didn’t anyway, Luton Town in the Premier League.
Yes it only lasted one year, but it was still some year and apart from the lack of parking at top flight grounds, it has been quite the 12 months, with memories made that will last a lifetime for both players and supporters. It’s now time to hand out some awards for what was Luton’s 2023-24 campaign in the highest tier of English football.
5. Skill of the season: Ross Barkley v Chelsea
Can’t be anyone other than Ross Barkley can it? So many examples, particularly at Kenilworth Road, brushing the likes of Rodri aside with ease, numerous Cruyff turns, and an array of passing to die for. One has to stand out though, and that was the perfectly weighted backheel through to team-mate Tahith Chong against Chelsea that drew gasps of sheer admiration from the Hatters faithful. Simply outstanding and no wonder the midfielder has been described by many as the best to ever pull on a Town shirt in their lifetime. Photo: Liam Smith
6. Best burst of the season: Chiedozie Ogbene v Liverpool
The flying winger had already shown the Premier League what he was about when recording a speed of 36.93km/h against Fulham earlier in the season as his forays forward were a feature of Luton's play when at their best, just ask Dan Burn, who was given an absolute roasting at St James' Park. However, it was Liverpool at home that really sticks in the memory, picking the ball up in his own half, knocking it past Trent Alexander-Arnold and effortlessly beating him for speed. Cut inside Konate as if he wasn't there, before teeing up Carlton Morris who unfortunately just couldn't get the better of Reds stopper Alisson. Photo: Liam Smith
7. Breakthrough of the season: Teden Mengi
After Luton couldn't get another of his old United team-mates in Axel Tuanzebe, not much was known about the defender, who had suffered with injury problems during his career, boss Rob Edwards stating there was no pressure on him to begin with. However, that soon changed with a composed debut at Everton as he didn’t look back from there. Became a huge crowd favourite with his warrior-like tendencies, going on to play 30 top flight games as others dropped around him. His best display was also at Goodison in the FA Cup, and is now a fully fledged England U21 international as well. Photo: Liam Smith
8. Most improved player of the season: Tahith Chong
So much was expected from the midfielder when he arrived in the summer with Luton fans remembering just how he tore the Hatters apart when at Birmingham a few years ago. Couldn't quite replicate that form in the early stages of the season as he was in and out of the team, but after starting against his former side Manchester United in February, he never looked back. Became a crucial part of Town's attacking threats and a real favourite with supporters due to his driving runs forward. Ended up with five goals and if he carries on this kind of form, will be a massive weapon to the Hatters' aim of bouncing straight back. Photo: Liam Smith