Luton youngster hailed as a 'great prospect' by Hatters supporters
Full back in fine form since coming into the side
Luton fans have hailed academy graduate Joe Johnson as a ‘great prospect’ after his impressive performances when breaking into the first team this season.
The 19-year-old joined the Hatters in 2020 having been released by Arsenal as a youngster and playing for grass-roots club Focus Football, making his first team debut against Middlesbrough in the Championship back in April 2023. After recovering from a serious hamstring injury in the summer, the England youth international came into the side following an injury to Kal Naismith just before Christmas. going on to start the last five games against Wycombe Wanderers, Leyton Orient, Exeter City, Stevenage and Lincoln City, helping Town take 10 points from a possible 15.
His efforts have not only impressed manager Jack Wilshere, but also the Town supporters, as writing on the Luton News X page, @LTFC_Dave said: “Has definitely changed the dynamic of what we need to do in terms of recruitment in this window. Making that left back spot his own and allowing Bramall to play in a more advanced role has probably saved us a signing. @kevlennon1: Really stepped up and obviously worked hard over the summer as a noticeable physical improvement was seen in the Boreham Wood friendly. His shirt to keep for the time being & hopefully CP can do some 1-on-1 stuff to improve his defensive side of things.
@Sill_UK: “Premiership potential.” @SteveLTFC17: “Probably got 2 there for a long time with Fox as well. Johnson would have definitely played more had he not had the hamstring injury at Southend in pre season.” @bradersfirst: He is massive for us. One of our own. Brings us balance. Can play from the back inverted as well. However I won’t hold my breath with Wilshere who will find fault or say Naismith is a better option.” @OPWMFancott0258: “Against Burnley, 1st game last season, he looked like a kid in the headlights. He seems to have grown physically and matured in his reading of the game. I've been impressed.”
Meanwhile, on the Luton News’ Facebook page, Chris O'Gorman wrote: “He is not the same as Doughty in terms of pace and perhaps not what can be described as an overlapping full back but plays more of the introverted modern full back. However his and Walsh’s set pieces are a massive improvement on previous taker Saville. Certainly improved physically as his performance against Stevenage showed. Defo deserves his place in the team and good that Jack is letting more youngsters get a feel for 1st team football which should spur other hungry young players.”
Benedict Quince: “When he first came through he was short in many areas especially physicality. He isn't the quickest but he has certainly gained composure, intelligence and is very handy on the ball rarely flustered I've liked what I've seen the last half dozen games or so." Mark Hammond: “Defo a starter when fit.” Geoff Ware: Since he’s come back from injury he seems to be more comfortable with the ball and technically aware also much stronger, if he keeps playing and improving we have a very good player on our hands.”
Martyn Smith: “Had a slow start to the match Saturday as he struggled with Lincoln's physical approach but once he settled he looked composed and creative.” Steve MadHatter Olloman: “Great prospect for us now a regular in the team. Had a great game against Lincoln and at last someone who can take a decent corner. Our new Alfie!” Stephen Jefferson: “Still think would make a good left centre back as lacks pace.”
Darren Abbott: “Let’s get some more in it’s great to see the hunger from our youth others have impressed also in the Vertu Cup by the way are we still in the competition or not.” John Innes: “Nice to see Joe grow in confidence. He'll be a top player.” Robert Sargeant: “Improving every game, will continue to learn the more he plays and definitely seems to show more passion than some of the senior pros.”
Simon Lowe: “Thought JJ was special last Boxing Day at Bristol City.” Nick Cox: “He’s been a breath of fresh air and an attacking force too, love watching him go forward.” Chris McCarthy: “He looks good at a young age, hopeful.” Stuart Sheinman: “Amazingly mature for one so young.” Barry John Sinfield: “He certainly looks cool and confident on the ball. Need to keep him.” Chris Sansby: “Did very very well.” Martin Parsons: “A decent full back for once.” Ian Lee: “Regular long-term left back? Maybe. Hopefully.” Ian Sorrell: “Had a great game last Saturday.”