Hatters felt they could have had even more in the League One Team of the Season

Luton boss Mick Harford felt his side could have had even more players included than the three that were named in the EFL League One Team of the Season last week.
James Justin shoots for goal against Bristol RoversJames Justin shoots for goal against Bristol Rovers
James Justin shoots for goal against Bristol Rovers

Striker James Collins along with full backs James Justin and Jack Stacey were all selected, with second placed Barnsley having four of the 11 chosen.

The likes of Sonny Bradley, Matty Pearson, Andrew Shinnie and Pelly-Ruddock Mpanzu all missed out though, as Harford said: “Those three definitely deserved it, and maybe a few more.

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“There’s been some outstanding individual performers this season for the football club.

“But we’ll respect that, we believe some other players should be in the team, because all of the team have performed at very high levels this season.

“We’re delighted to have three, we’d prefer to have more in, but that’s the way it goes and people make their choices.”

Midfielder Mpanzu, who is up for the EFL Goal of the Year honour, also felt there could have been more Hatters included, saying: “Jack and JJ have been great all season and Collo’s banging in the goals, so we can’t really complain.

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“Sheasy (James Shea) has been great even though he’s done nothing, it’s been Matty and Sonny helping out.

“It could have been more, I thought Shins deserved a place in there, but everyone knows that we’re a great team and right now no-one can stop us.”

Striker Collins was also bemused there wasn’t a larger Luton contingent, saying: “It’s thoroughly deserved and I’m surprised a couple more didn’t get in there with some of the performances this year.

“For three of us to get in there and Pelly for Goal of the Year as well, to have another four lads going, on top of the five from last year, is great credit to the lads.”

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It wasn’t just the team awards that Luton dominated, with Collins up for League One Player of the Year and Justin, the EFL Young Player of the Year.

Collins said: “It’s a great honour to be recognised for your performances in the year. It’s a first for me, so it gives me massive confidence and I’m really going to enjoy it.”

Meanwhile, Justin added: “It started off okay for me but then as soon as I got in the team I feel I’ve taken my chance and performed consistently throughout the season.

“It’s just a pleasure to get into the team and then be nominated for Young Player of the Season.

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“It’s a credit to all the team around me, as I wouldn’t be able to do it without them.”

On Justin’s nomination, boss Harford said: “He’s up against two good players, (Harry) Wilson at Derby and (Max) Aarons at Norwich City, who are very, very good players.

“When I’ve watched Norwich play, that kid’s a real, real good player, so for JJ to be in amongst that lot, it’s just testament to what he’s done and how far he’s come in terms of his development.

“He can cover various positions and he’s just so reliable for the football club wherever he plays.”

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Finally, for Mpanzu to be in the running for the top goal honour, the midfielder added: “Any award is a nice award as it’s always a team game.

“But that strike was nice and hopefully people will be voting for me, to get another award would be great.”