Jones: I missed Pelly-Ruddock Mpanzu's uplifting antics after leaving Luton

Town boss Nathan Jones admitted he missed midfielder Pelly-Ruddock Mpanzu’s infectious enthusiasm during his time away from Kenilworth Road.

Jones was manager of the Hatters for three years from January 2016, having a huge influence on the former West Ham youngster's progression at the club.

He helped Mpanzu become the durable athlete he is now, able to play over 50 games a season twice, whereas before, after being signed by John Still, he had struggled to cope with two matches in quick succession due to a variety of ailments.

The long-serving fans-favourite, who has now made 246 appearances in a Luton shirt, is the only outfield player, along with Cameron Carter-Vickers, to have played every single minute since the Championship resumed last month, with another display full of energy and running at Leeds United on Tuesday night.

Speaking about the 26-year-old, the proud owner of three promotions with the club, Jones said: "If I’m honest, Pelly missed a day’s training leading into the Preston game which he hasn’t done for three years since I’ve been here.

"Literally, he hasn’t missed a day’s training, a game, a minute or anything like that, so it’s phenomenal the turnaround in him.

"He had injury worries before he came but he’s one that has really benefited from the environment and he’s proven to be a key performer for us, a wonderful player, wonderful character.

"When I was not at the football club, I missed him because he lifts people every day."