Young defender named Hatters' Scholar of the Year at Wembley

Young Luton defender Harry Fox was named as Scholar of the Year during a prestigious event celebrating the achievements of Premier League scholars from across the country held at Wembley Stadium last week.

The teenage left back joined the academy as a nine-year old and during the 2024-25 campaign, featured in 47 U18s matches, clocking up over 4,000 minutes of action. Attracting the attention of first team manager Jack Wilshere, Fox went on to make his senior debut last term in the Vertu Trophy when coming on at half time in a 3-1 win against Brighton & Hove Albion U21s, getting further minutes in the 4-0 victory over Exeter City as well.

He also started the 2-1 defeat to Swindon Town, although Luton were later reinstated in the competition due to the Robins selecting an ineligible player, named in two more squads, the Hatters going on to win the whole thing when beating Stockport County 3-1 at Wembley. With boss Wilshere clearly a fan of the 18-year-old, who often trained with the first team at the Brache, he was involved in the League One squads at Exeter City on New Year’s Day, plus the 1-1 draw at Port Vale too.

Fox also made seven appearances in the Premier League Cup for Luton with one goal and one assist, playing in the FA Youth Cup as well, as a statement on the Hatters’ official website said: “A proud evening at Wembley Stadium saw Harry Fox recognised as Scholar of the Year during a prestigious event celebrating the achievements of Premier League scholars from across the country.

“Presented by Alan Shearer alongside fellow Premier League learners, the award highlighted not only Harry's outstanding performances on the pitch, but also his exceptional commitment away from football. Harry has enjoyed a remarkable year, making his first-team debut while continuing to excel academically. Alongside his football development, he has achieved distinctions in his BTEC studies and is currently sitting his A-Levels in Business in May and June.

"The evening brought together an array of talented young players from clubs around the country, many of whom have already made first-team appearances. However, the event also celebrated the importance of being role models away from the game, recognising scholars who represent their clubs with discipline and professionalism off the pitch.

Head of Education Kobie Dee, who has worked with Harry since passing his GCSEs, said: "Harry has been an outstanding example of what a modern scholar should represent. His dedication to both his football and education has been exceptional throughout the two years. To make a first-team debut while also achieving distinctions in his BTEC studies and continuing his A-Level education is a tremendous achievement.”