2008–09 Luton Town F.C. season

English football club season December 2017 February 2015 Luton Town 2008–09 2007–08 2009–10 Mick Harford Nick Owen Football League Two 24th (relegated) FA Cup Second round Football League Cup Second round Football League Trophy Winners Chris Martin (11) Chris Martin (13) 8,711 vs Brighton & Hove Albion (Football League Trophy, 17 February 2009) 2,029 vs Brentford (Football League Trophy, 7 October 2008) 5,633 _borderonwhite _lutonhome08 _borderonwhite FF3300 FFFFFF FF3300 000033 FFFFFF _orange_shoulders _orangeshoulders _orange_shoulders 000033 000033 000033 000033 000033 FF3300 FF3300 FF3300 FFFFFF FFFFFF The 2008–09 season was the 123rd season in the history of Luton Town Football Club. The team's 23rd-place finish in the 2006–07 Football League Championship and 24th-place finish in 2007–08 Football League One meant the club competed in League Two. The club was docked 30 points at the start of the season; 10 by The Football Association for irregular matters involving player transfers, and 20 by the Football League for breaking the rules on exiting administration. As a result, the club finished at the bottom of the league and was relegated to the Conference Premier. The season was not, however, without success – Luton beat Scunthorpe United 3–2 at Wembley to win the Football League Trophy for the first time. This article covers the period from 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2009. Background History of Luton Town F.C. (1970–present) List of Luton Town F.C. seasons Kevin Blackwell's Luton team had a woeful 2007–08 season, due in no small part to the chaos behind the scenes at the club. Chairman David Pinkney, who had only months before taken over the club promising success, took the club into administration on 22 November 2007, stating he would fund the club's overheads. The club had ten points deducted as punishment.Luton suffer 10-point deduction http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/7108271.stm BBC 22 November 2007 12 April 2009 Meanwhile, an FA probe on transfer irregularities dragged on, described by Pinkney as "a storm in a teacup".FA probe 'storm in a teacup' says Hatters chairman http://www.dunstabletoday.co.uk/luton-sport/FA-probe-39storm-in-teacup39.3369031.jp Dunstable Today Johnston Press 11 October 2007 12 April 2009 On 12 January, Kevin Blackwell and his assistants Sam Ellis and John Carver announced their intention to resign from the club on 9 February. This came after the administrator had sold captain Chris Coyne to Colchester United and midfielder David Edwards to Wolverhampton Wanderers for £350,000 and £675,000 respectively. Blackwell had managed to guide his team to an FA Cup replay against Liverpool at Anfield, which assisted financially, but failed to prevent further sales.Kevin Blackwell resigns from Luton Town https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2288615/Kevin-Blackwell-resigns-from-Luton-Town.html The Daily Telegraph 12 January 2008 29 April 2009 London Andy Hooper On the same day as the replay at Anfield, 15 January, the administrator awarded "preferred bidder" status to Luton Town Football Club 2020, a consortium fronted by broadcaster and Luton Town supporter Nick Owen. 2020 loaned money to the club to keep them operating and, in return, were granted exclusive negotiation rights until the end of February 2008.Key breakthrough in battle to save Hatters http://www.lutontoday.co.uk/lut/Key-breakthrough-in-battle-to.3675350.jp Luton Today Johnston Press 15 January 2008 29 April 2009 21 January 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080121110711/http://www.lutontoday.co.uk/lut/Key-breakthrough-in-battle-to.3675350.jp dead Blackwell and his assistants were all sacked by the administrator on the same day, following a 5–0 defeat to Liverpool, to be replaced by former player Mick Harford, with Warren Neill installed as his assistant.Mick Harford replaces Kevin Blackwell at Luton https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2289140/Mick-Harford-replaces-Kevin-Blackwell-at-Luton.html The Daily Telegraph 16 January 2008 29 April 2009 London Vicki Hodges Charlie Caroe On 26 February, the 2020 consortium had their bid for the club conditionally accepted by the administrator. This meant that they were now custodians of the club until the end of the season, and that the Football League would have to negotiate terms to return the Golden Share to Luton Town for the 2008–09 campaign.Owen consortium nears Luton deal http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/7266108.stm BBC Sport 26 February 2008 29 April 2009 Luton were relegated to League Two following a 2–1 home defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion on 12 April. The defeat left the Hatters rooted to the bottom of the table on 33 points, three points behind fellow strugglers Port Vale, who were also relegated on the same day. Luton lost all of their remaining league games and finished the season in bottom place and 17 points adrift of safety.https://www.fchd.info/LUTONT.HTM Football Club History Database – Luton Town Richard Rundle 29 April 2009 live https://web.archive.org/web/20080529205257/http://www.fchd.info/LUTONT.HTM 29 May 2008 dmy On 3 June, the FA's probe finally finished, and Luton were found guilty of 15 misconduct charges. The club was handed a ten-point deduction for the 2008–09 campaign, and a £50,000 fine.Luton Town lose appeal against points deduction http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/football_league/article4069303.ece The Times 4 June 2008 10 October 2008 London Kaveh SolhekolSeptember 2024 medicmedic However, the situation soon went from bad to worse as, since the club had violated Football League rules by leaving administration without having made a Company Voluntary Arrangement with its creditors, the Football League only offered to return the Golden Share (that would allow the club to compete) to Luton on the condition that they play with a further twenty-point deduction. Luton appealed against the decision, but their appeal was thrown out. As a result, Luton Town began the 2008–09 season with an unprecedented −30 points, the biggest point deduction on record in the top four rungs of English football. The Hatters faced a mighty fight merely to avoid relegation from the Football League for the first time in their history.Luton Town lose appeal against points deduction http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/football_league/article4340138.ece https://web.archive.org/web/20110918040206/http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/football_league/article4340138.ece dead 18 September 2011 The Times 16 July 2008 17 July 2008 London Kaveh Solhekol Review Pre-season Following the player sales in the previous season, Luton manager Mick Harford needed to practically rebuild his squad from scratch. A Football League-enforced transfer embargo that was in place until 48 hours before their first game of the season handicapped Harford further.Luton sign eight... and number could rise http://www.luton-dunstable.co.uk/Sport/Luton-Town-FC/Luton-sign-eight-and-number-could-rise.htm Luton & Dunstable Express 8 August 2008 6 February 2014 https://web.archive.org/web/20140222161904/http://www.luton-dunstable.co.uk/Sport/Luton-Town-FC/Luton-sign-eight-and-number-could-rise.htm 22 February 2014 dead dmy-all Once the embargo was lifted on 8 August, the club signed nine players: former player Kevin Nicholls returned from a spell at Preston North End to captain the team; Claude Gnakpa joined from Peterborough United; Asa Hall signed from Birmingham City; George Pilkington arrived from Port Vale, and many others were signed including Michael Spillane and Chris Martin, both on season-long loans from Norwich City. August and September Luton made an indifferent start to the season, beating Plymouth Argyle in the League Cup, before going down 5–1 in the next round at Reading. By the end of September, Luton had reached −19 points in the league. This included an opening day home defeat to Port Vale, but narrow away victories over both Gillingham and Exeter City. October Luton's form soon slumped – after a draw away at Bradford City and a penalty shootout win over Brentford in the Football League Trophy, they lost two home games in a row. First Darlington inflicted defeat with a last minute winner in front of the Oak Road, then Luton were beaten 2–1 at home by Accrington Stanley in the first ever meeting between the two clubs.Luton 1–2 Accrington http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7665161.stm BBC Sport 5 November 2008 18 October 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081021093358/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7665161.stm 21 October 2008 live Meanwhile, manager Mick Harford continued to try to regenerate the squad – Irish winger Garreth O'Connor was drafted in from free agency, as was former Coventry City forward Wayne Andrews.Luton recruit midfielder O'Connor http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/7655387.stm BBC 6 October 2008 5 November 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081009044420/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/7655387.stm 9 October 2008 liveHatters complete double striker swoop http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1423881,00.html Luton Town F.C. 17 October 2008 5 November 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081019232603/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1423881%2C00.html 19 October 2008 dead dmy-all A spate of injuries did not help matters – talismanic captain Nicholls had not played since August, forward Sam Parkin was struggling with a recurring ankle injury, and defender Pilkington was out after becoming injured in early September. Harford introduced several younger players into the squad, including 16-year-old left-back Jake Howells from the youth team, 19-year-old Harry Worley on loan from Leicester City and 20-year-old striker Tom Craddock on loan from Middlesbrough.Foxes' Worley joins Luton on loan http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/7623657.stm BBC Sport 18 September 2008 5 November 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080921062730/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/7623657.stm 21 September 2008 live Craddock made a big impact in his second game – scoring two goals in a 2–2 draw at Grimsby Town. Craddock earned and scored a penalty after Grimsby had taken an early lead, and then, deep into injury time, crashed the ball into the far corner from long range to secure a vital point for Luton. Luton Town history was made in this game as striker Jordan Patrick pulled on the number 29 shirt to become the club's youngest ever player – at 16 years and 7 days, Patrick came off the bench to set up Craddock's equaliser. Craddock scored again in a 2–1 win against Bury to quickly establish himself in the team.Grimsby 2–2 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7672128.stm BBC Sport 20 October 2008 5 November 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081024165829/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7672128.stm 24 October 2008 live Parkin, one of the club's highest earners, returned from injury during this game, but failed to score. He was sent out on loan to Leyton Orient days later, with a view to a permanent deal.Parkin move confirmed http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1429884,00.html Luton Town F.C. 23 October 2008 24 October 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081026091821/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1429884%2C00.html 26 October 2008 dead dmy-all Bury 1–2 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7675580.stm BBC Sport 25 October 2008 5 November 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081028114813/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7675580.stm 28 October 2008 live Three days later, a Tuesday night game against AFC Bournemouth at Kenilworth Road was abandoned after only eight minutes due to bad weather.Luton A-A Bournemouth http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7696353.stm BBC Sport 28 October 2008 5 November 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081101153104/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7696353.stm 1 November 2008 live November Luton's form was interrupted – a 3–0 annihilation followed that Saturday at Shrewsbury Town, putting a dent into Luton's charge for safety. A win in the Football League Trophy, against League One club Walsall, was the exception rather than the rule.Shrewsbury 3–0 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7686176.stm BBC Sport 1 November 2008 5 November 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081104013739/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7686176.stm 4 November 2008 liveWalsall 0–1 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/7700481.stm BBC Sport 4 November 2008 5 November 2008 Ahead of the next game, at home against Dagenham & Redbridge, Luton were boosted by the news that Craddock had extended his loan from Middlesbrough by a month.Craddock signs for another month http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1452692,00.html Luton Town F.C. 12 November 2008 13 November 2008 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20120301142831/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1452692%2C00.html 1 March 2012 dmy However, when Craddock injured his groin only days later, Luton were forced to bring in another striker – former Queens Park Rangers player Kevin Gallen was signed on loan for a month from MK Dons.Gallen signs for a month http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1454818,00.html Luton Town F.C. 14 November 2008 14 November 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20120301142844/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1454818,00.html 1 March 2012 dead dmy-all Results did not improve, with consecutive losses to Rochdale and Brentford.Rochdale 2–0 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7727548.stm BBC Sport 22 November 2008 30 December 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20090108001522/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7727548.stm 8 January 2009 liveLuton 0–1 Brentford http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7741784.stm BBC Sport 25 November 2008 30 December 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081204043800/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7741784.stm 4 December 2008 live An exit from the FA Cup followed, as Southend comfortably beat Luton 3–1 at Roots Hall.Southend 3–1 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/7741969.stm BBC Sport 29 November 2008 30 December 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20090102022509/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/7741969.stm 2 January 2009 live December December saw a revival in fortunes, as the Hatters went the entire month unbeaten. After a thrilling 3–3 draw at Kenilworth Road in the rescheduled game against Bournemouth, Luton beat Barnet 3–1.Luton 3–3 Bournemouth http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7749983.stm BBC Sport 2 December 2008 30 December 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20090102022504/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7749983.stm 2 January 2009 liveLuton 3–1 Barnet http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7752469.stm BBC 6 December 2008 30 December 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20090102022253/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7752469.stm 2 January 2009 live A 0–0 draw at top-of-the-table Wycombe Wanderers followed a week later, before Luton beat Colchester United in the Football League Trophy to earn a place in the Southern Area Final against Brighton & Hove Albion.Wycombe 0–0 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7764821.stm BBC Sport 13 December 2008 26 March 2009Luton 1–0 Colchester http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/7775104.stm BBC Sport 16 December 2008 26 March 2009 Craddock extended his loan from Middlesbrough by another month soon after.Craddock Loan extended http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1497883,00.html Luton Town F.C. 23 December 2008 26 March 2009 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20090202114757/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1497883%2C00.html 2 February 2009 dmy Luton's unbeaten run continued on Boxing Day; Ian Roper's goal six minutes into injury time sealing a point at Chesterfield.Chesterfield 2–2 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7790403.stm BBC Sport 26 December 2008 26 March 2009 Two days later came a home win against Lincoln City, Roper scoring again after Martin had put Luton 2–0 ahead – the match finished 3–2.Luton 3–2 Lincoln City http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7790483.stm BBC Sport 28 December 2008 26 March 2009 Luton were now only one point away from cancelling out their 30-point deduction. January Winger Ian Henderson, available as a free agent, signed on New Year's Day and Gallen's loan was also extended. To make room on the wage bill, O'Connor and Kevin Watson both left after short careers as Luton players.Henderson and Gallen sign on http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1506796,00.html Luton Town F.C. 2 January 2009 26 March 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090505024446/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1506796%2C00.html 5 May 2009 dead dmy-all The club then had a bad run of results, including a 5–1 defeat at Darlington.Chester 2–2 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7815503.stm BBC Sport 13 January 2009 26 March 2009Darlington 5–1 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7816209.stm BBC Sport 17 January 2009 26 March 2009 Before the Darlington game, Luton signed Colchester United forward Akanni-Sunday Wasiu on loan for a month, while extending goalkeeper Conrad Logan's stay for a further month and signing Gallen on a permanent deal. Andrews was released soon after.Hatters sign trio http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1521360,00.html Luton Town F.C. 15 January 2009 26 March 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20120301142920/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1521360,00.html 1 March 2012 dead dmy-all In the first leg of the Football League Trophy Southern Area Final on 20 January, Luton travelled to Brighton & Hove Albion and battled to a 0–0 draw, giving them a slight advantage for the second leg at Kenilworth Road.Brighton 0–0 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/7824239.stm BBC Sport 20 January 2009 26 March 2009 A controversial 3–3 draw with Bradford City saw both teams' managers, Mick Harford and Stuart McCall, and Luton captain Nicholls all set dates for FA hearings following a bizarre refereeing performance from Trevor Kettle.Luton 3–3 Bradford http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10372~45397,00.html Luton Town F.C. 24 January 2009 26 March 2009 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20120301142932/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10372~45397%2C00.html 1 March 2012 Craddock signed an £80,000 permanent deal on 27 January, with Drew Talbot leaving for Chesterfield on loan to make room on the wage budget.Craddock seals permanent move http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1534933,00.html Luton Town F.C. 27 January 2009 26 March 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20120301142952/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1534933,00.html 1 March 2012 dead dmy-all Talbot joins Spireites http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1534551,00.html Luton Town F.C. 27 January 2009 26 March 2009 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20120301143036/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1534551%2C00.html 1 March 2012 Luton's poor run of league form continued.Bournemouth 1–1 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7847936.stm BBC Sport 27 January 2009 26 March 2009Luton 1–2 Bury http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7858200.stm BBC Sport 31 January 2009 26 March 2009 February A series of postponements due to adverse weather meant the club did not play for another two weeks and, when they did, they lost 2–1 to Dagenham & Redbridge.Dag & Red 2–1 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7876772.stm BBC Sport 14 February 2009 26 March 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090216185508/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7876772.stm 16 February 2009 live 17 February saw Brighton & Hove Albion return for the second leg of the Football League Trophy Southern Area Final. Luton took the lead after 59 seconds through Craddock, following a defensive mix-up. Brighton equalised with a Nicky Forster goal before David Livermore was sent off for a dangerous tackle on Spillane. Neither club made a breakthrough in the remainder of the match, which went to a penalty shoot-out. Luton's on-loan goalkeeper from Derby County, Lewis Price, saved from Jason Jarrett and Chris Birchall to take Luton into the final against Scunthorpe United on 5 April at Wembley Stadium.Luton 1–1 Brighton (aet) http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/7884073.stm BBC Sport 17 February 2009 26 March 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090219165608/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/7884073.stm 19 February 2009 live This appeared to have given Luton something of a confidence boost as they then went four games unbeaten in the league. Craddock scored again against Shrewsbury Town as Luton won 3–1,Luton 3–1 Shrewsbury http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7903799.stm BBC Sport 21 February 2009 26 March 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090224150533/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7903799.stm 24 February 2009 live and carried on his scoring form over the next month. March The next major game was on 17 March against relegation rivals Grimsby Town. Grimsby boss Mike Newell, formerly manager of Luton Town, was suing the club for unfair dismissal.Mike Newell to feel force of Luton Town fury http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/football_league/article5914237.ece The Times 16 March 2009 26 March 2009 London Kaveh SolhekolSeptember 2024 medicmedic Newell received an angry reception, which turned to jeers when Hall scored a last minute winner to give Luton the three points.Luton 2–1 Grimsby http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7935462.stm BBC Sport 17 March 2009 26 March 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090323200129/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7935462.stm 23 March 2009 live Macclesfield Town then visited Kenilworth Road, and a Craddock penalty was enough to secure a 1–0 victory for Luton – the first time the club had secured two straight wins all season.Luton 1–0 Macclesfield http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7937385.stm BBC Sport 21 March 2009 26 March 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090323125550/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7937385.stm 23 March 2009 live Meanwhile, the club announced they had sold out their allocated 30,000 tickets for the Football League Trophy final almost immediately, and were given another 8,500 which went just as fast – setting a record for the most fans at Wembley Stadium from one club. However, Luton were told they would not be given any more due to "segregation issues". As a result, the final saw 40,000 Wembley seats empty.Hatters sell-out Wembley http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1596452,00.html Luton Town F.C. 19 March 2009 26 March 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090322053008/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1596452%2C00.html 22 March 2009 dead dmy-all 26 March, loan deadline day, saw Luton bring in experienced midfielder David Livermore from Brighton & Hove Albion on a month's loan. Meanwhile, young striker Ryan Charles moved to Kettering Town on loan, also for a month.Hatters loan Livermore http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1603914,00.html Luton Town F.C. 26 March 2009 26 March 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090329020322/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1603914%2C00.html 29 March 2009 dead dmy-all Two days later the Hatters travelled to Morecambe, unbeaten in twelve games. Goals from Martin and Gallen saw Luton beat Morecambe 2–1 and, in doing so, managed three straight wins for the first time since the 2004–05 League One winning season.Morecambe 1–2 Luton http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10372~45006,00.html Luton Town F.C. 28 March 2009 29 March 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090726074028/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10372~45006,00.html 26 July 2009 dead dmy-all Luton were now only eight points behind Chester City and with a game in hand. The match that Tuesday against Rotherham United, Luton's game in hand, could not have been more vital, but the Hatters ended up being defeated 4–2 and suffered a severe blow to their hopes of escaping relegation. The FA hearings from the Bradford City game in January rolled around for Nicholls, Mick Harford and the club on 23 March – Harford was fined a total of £1,000, the club £2,000, and Nicholls £1,000. Nicholls was also handed a five-match ban to begin on 7 April – however, the club lodged an appeal against the ban on 31 March, delaying its effect until after the appeal was heard.FA Disciplinary Hearings http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1601163,00.html Luton Town F.C. 24 March 2009 26 March 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090327060613/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1601163%2C00.html 27 March 2009 dead dmyTown to appeal against Nico ban http://www.lutontoday.co.uk/lut/Town-to-appeal-against-Nico.5127265.jp https://archive.today/20130422051018/http://www.lutontoday.co.uk/lut/Town-to-appeal-against-Nico.5127265.jp dead 22 April 2013 Luton Today Johnston Press 31 March 2009 29 April 2009 April April began with the news that the club had won their case against former manager Mike Newell. Newell claimed that in his contract he had been entitled to 10% of any profit on players sold. However, his claim for £400,000 in unpaid transfer money was not upheld by a Football League panel on 31 March.Newell loses case against the Town http://www.dunstabletoday.co.uk/luton-sport/Newell-loses-case-against-the.5152463.jp Dunstable Today Johnston Press 1 April 2009 30 April 2009 October 2010 H3llBot thumb|right|300px|Luton Town staff celebrate winning the Football League Trophy. 5 April finally came, and Luton faced Scunthorpe United at Wembley Stadium in the Football League Trophy final as 40,000 Luton supporters converged on Wembley, dwarfing Scunthorpe's support of 13,000. Brian Mawhinney, Chairman of the Football League, was roundly booed by the Luton support before the game, in protest at the huge point deductions imposed at the start of the season. When the game got going, however, it was Scunthorpe who drew first blood in a pulsating match. Gary Hooper put Scunthorpe ahead early on with a low shot past Dean Brill. Craddock set up Martin with a superb cross a few minutes later, and Martin chested the ball down to shoot into the far corner to make it 1–1. In the second half, Craddock scored a half-volley from the edge of the box to make it 2–1, but Grant McCann forced extra time with a spectacular strike with only minutes left. Craddock was substituted and replaced by French defender Gnakpa, played in an unusually forward role by Mick Harford – it was a gamble which paid off, as Gnakpa ran onto a long ball from Keith Keane and got a touch that carried the ball over Joe Murphy and into the net, sending the supporters wild. Luton clung on, with man-of-the-match captain Nicholls at the centre of the game, and held on to win the match 3–2 and bring the Football League Trophy to Luton for the first time.Luton 3–2 Scunthorpe (aet) http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/7975143.stm BBC Sport 5 April 2009 6 April 2009 Only eight days later, Luton lost their League status – Lincoln City dealt another blow, as Luton were held to a 0–0 draw, and the final nail in the coffin came two days later as, on 13 April 2009, Luton Town were finally relegated from The Football League after a spell of 89 years.Lincoln City 0–0 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7979660.stm BBC Sport 11 April 2009 13 April 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090414075323/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7979660.stm 14 April 2009 live Chesterfield held Luton to a draw and, coupled with former Luton manager Mike Newell's Grimsby Town side winning, this meant the club's survival in the league became mathematically impossible to achieve.Luton 0–0 Chesterfield http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7979729.stm BBC Sport 13 April 2009 13 April 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090415104114/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7979729.stm 15 April 2009 live I found out at five to five. I looked at the clock in the dressing room and said to the players: "Remember this time – five to five, on 13 April. This is the rebirth of Luton Town Football Club. 20px 20px Mick Harford, Manager, Luton TownHarford: A new era starts http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/PostMatchReaction/0,,10372~1625443,00.html Luton Town F.C. 13 April 2009 29 April 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090416043819/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/PostMatchReaction/0%2C%2C10372~1625443%2C00.html 16 April 2009 dead dmy-all Relegation opened the question of whether Luton would be allowed to enter the Football League Trophy during the 2009–10 season. Luton soon submitted an application to the Football League, asking for special dispensation to defend their title.Hatters hoping to defend trophy http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1824_5162740,00.html Teamtalk 13 April 2009 3 May 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090513054917/http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0%2C16368%2C1824_5162740%2C00.html 13 May 2009 dead dmy-all A Rossi Jarvis goal saved a point at Barnet on 18 April. Nicholls was sent off late on for collecting two yellow cards, and Brill saved a penalty from former Hatter Paul Furlong.Barnet 1–1 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7989965.stm BBC Sport 18 April 2009 20 April 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090422010426/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7989965.stm 22 April 2009 live Wycombe Wanderers then came to Kenilworth Road, but despite Luton forcing pressure on the promotion contenders, Wycombe managed a goal on the break following an error by Sol Davis and Luton failed to find an equaliser.Luton 0–1 Wycombe http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/8002115.stm BBC Sport 21 April 2009 22 April 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090423072958/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/8002115.stm 23 April 2009 live Luton's last home game in the Football League was a 1–1 draw with promotion chasers Rochdale, with Craddock scoring a penalty before Adam Rundle rescued a point for the visitors.Luton 1–1 Rochdale http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/8002144.stm BBC Sport 25 April 2009 26 April 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090428130140/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/8002144.stm 28 April 2009 live 27 April saw the appeal against the Nicholls ban heard at the FA, and the decision was upheld, meaning that Nicholls would miss the match against Brentford on 2 May, as well as the first four games of the 2009–10 season.Nico to miss start of season http://www.lutontoday.co.uk/lut/Nico-to-miss-start-of.5214473.jp https://archive.today/20130420222943/http://www.lutontoday.co.uk/lut/Nico-to-miss-start-of.5214473.jp dead 20 April 2013 Luton Today Johnston Press 29 April 2009 29 April 2009 Two days later, long-serving club secretary Cherry Newbury, an employee since 1978, finally left by mutual consent after a period of suspension on full pay starting in January. Newbury had been secretary since 1994, and was implicated as the employee who drew The Football Association's attention to former directors paying agents through the club's holding company.Goodbye to long-serving club secretary http://www.lutontoday.co.uk/lut/Goodbye-to-longserving-club-secretary.5222432.jp Luton Today Johnston Press 30 April 2009 1 May 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090504094838/http://www.lutontoday.co.uk/lut/Goodbye-to-longserving-club-secretary.5222432.jp 4 May 2009 live May and June Luton Town bowed out of the Football League after 89 years with a 2–0 defeat at champions Brentford.Brentford 2–0 Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/8015039.stm BBC Sport 2 May 2009 3 May 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090504090311/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/8015039.stm 4 May 2009 live The first signing of the summer for Luton's time in non-League football was announced on 26 May, as lifelong Luton Town supporter Andy Burgess signed a two-year contract, joining from Rushden & Diamonds on a free transfer.Luton snap up midfielder Burgess http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8069110.stm BBC Sport 27 May 2009 27 May 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090530091607/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/8069110.stm 30 May 2009 live The next day saw five players released – Parkin, Dean Morgan, Paul McVeigh, Davis and Brill all left as their contracts had ended.http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1670246,00.html Hatters release quintet 27 May 2009 Luton Town F.C. 28 May 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090530071911/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1670246%2C00.html 30 May 2009 dead Adam Newton signed a two-year contract on 28 May following his release from Brentford, as regeneration of the squad continued.http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1675112,00.html Hatters quick to nab Newton 28 May 2009 Luton Town F.C. 28 May 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090531072853/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1675112%2C00.html 31 May 2009 dead dmy-all Gallen signed a new one-year deal the same day.http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1674743,00.html Gallen agrees one year extension 28 May 2009 Luton Town F.C. 28 May 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090531072813/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1674743%2C00.html 31 May 2009 dead dmy Young defender Howells signed his first professional deal on 2 June.http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1685181,00.html Howells pens professional deal 2 June 2009 Luton Town F.C. 3 June 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090611194158/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1685181%2C00.html 11 June 2009 dead dmy-all Three days later, Liam Hatch arrived on loan from Peterborough United for the 2009–10 season.http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1687065,00.html Ambitious Hatters hatch a plan Luton Town F.C. 5 June 2009 5 June 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090611172152/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1687065%2C00.html 11 June 2009 dead dmy-all Central defender Alan White rejoined Luton on 8 June, nine years after leaving in 2000.http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1688554,00.html White returns to Kenilworth Road Luton Town F.C. 8 June 2009 8 June 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090612023241/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1688554%2C00.html 12 June 2009 dead dmy-all On 15 June, the request to defend the Football League Trophy title was turned down.Hatters refused JPT place http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1692868,00.html Luton Town F.C. 15 June 2009 15 June 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090618143836/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1692868%2C00.html 18 June 2009 dead dmy-all Experienced goalkeeper Mark Tyler signed a two-year deal two years later.Town swoop to tie-up Tyler deal http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1695038,00.html Luton Town F.C. 17 June 2009 17 June 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090619200803/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1695038%2C00.html 19 June 2009 dead Match results Luton Town results given first. Legend WinDrawLoss Friendlies +DateOpponentVenueResultAttendanceScorers12 July 2008Boreham WoodAway4–2300McVeigh, Spring (2), Morgan14 July 2008Hitchin TownAway1–4876Hall19 July 2008Bedford TownAway3–01,133Malcolm, Parkin, Broughton22 July 2008Leicester CityHome1–11,934Spring24 July 2008St Neots TownAway2–4521Sinclair, Quinn26 July 2008Northampton TownHome0–01,290—29 July 2008Colchester UnitedHome0–11,203—2 August 2008Brighton & Hove AlbionHome0–31,358— Football League Two +DateOpponentVenueResultAttendanceScorers9 August 2008Port ValeHome1–37,149Parkin16 August 2008GillinghamAway1–05,339Parkin23 August 2008Notts CountyHome1–16,085Martin30 August 2008Exeter CityAway1–05,328Parkin6 September 2008Macclesfield TownAway1–22,349Charles13 September 2008Aldershot TownHome3–16,462Spillane, Hall, Martin20 September 2008Rotherham UnitedAway0–14,095—27 September 2008Chester CityHome1–15,731Hall4 October 2008Bradford CityAway1–113,083Spillane11 October 2008DarlingtonHome1–25,560Gnakpa18 October 2008Accrington StanleyHome1–25,492Hall21 October 2008Grimsby TownAway2–24,021Craddock (2)25 October 2008BuryAway2–13,052Craddock, Roper1 November 2008Shrewsbury TownAway0–36,188—15 November 2008Dagenham & RedbridgeHome2–15,402Davis, McVeigh22 November 2008RochdaleAway0–22,901—25 November 2008BrentfordHome0–15,248—2 December 2008AFC BournemouthHome3–36,773own goal, Gallen, McVeigh6 December 2008BarnetHome3–15,536McVeigh, Martin, own goal13 December 2008Wycombe WanderersAway0–05,567—20 December 2008MorecambeHome1–15,664Spillane26 December 2008ChesterfieldAway2–24,243Craddock, Roper28 December 2008Lincoln CityHome3–26,643Martin (2), Roper13 January 2009Chester CityAway2–21,652Martin, Emanuel17 January 2009DarlingtonAway1–53,319Martin24 January 2009Bradford CityHome3–36,053Hall (2), Wasiu27 January 2009AFC BournemouthAway1–15,230—31 January 2009BuryHome1–25,545Hall14 February 2009Dagenham & RedbridgeAway1–22,310Henderson21 February 2009Shrewsbury TownHome3–15,661Craddock, Parkin, Hall24 February 2009Accrington StanleyAway0–01,033—28 February 2009Port ValeAway3–11,358Hall, Gallen, Martin3 March 2009GillinghamHome0–05,739—7 March 2009Exeter CityHome1–26,460Craddock10 March 2009Notts CountyAway2–02,886Martin, Craddock14 March 2009Aldershot TownAway1–23,098Craddock17 March 2009Grimsby TownHome2–15,830Bower, Hall21 March 2009Macclesfield TownHome1–05,363Craddock28 March 2009MorecambeAway2–12,599Martin, Gallen31 March 2009Rotherham UnitedHome2–45,975Martin, Hall11 April 2009Lincoln CityAway0–04,664—13 April 2009ChesterfieldHome0–06,494 —18 April 2009BarnetAway1–12,808Jarvis21 April 2009Wycombe WanderersHome0–16,553—25 April 2009RochdaleHome1–17,025Craddock2 May 2009BrentfordAway0–210,223— FA Cup information on this season's FA Cup 2008–09 FA Cup +RoundDateOpponentVenueResultAttendanceGoalscorersNotes1st round8 November 2008AltrinchamHome0–03,200—1st round (replay)18 November 2008AltrinchamAway0–02,397—pens1 A2nd round29 November 2008Southend UnitedAway1–34,111Spillane Football League Cup information on this season's Football League Cup 2008–09 Football League Cup +RoundDateOpponentVenueResultAttendanceGoalscorers1st round12 August 2008Plymouth ArgyleHome2–02,682Jarvis, Plummer2nd round26 August 2008ReadingAway1–57,498Charles Football League Trophy information on this season's Football League Trophy 2008–09 Football League Trophy +RoundDateOpponentVenueResultAttendanceGoalscorersNotes2nd round7 October 2008BrentfordHome2–22,029Martin (2)pens2 BSouthernQuarter Final4 November 2008WalsallAway1–01,844JarvisSouthernSemi-final16 December 2008Colchester UnitedHome1–02,638GnakpaSouthernFinalFirst Leg20 January 2009Brighton & Hove AlbionAway0–06,127—SouthernFinalSecond Leg17 February 2009Brighton & Hove AlbionHome1–18,711Craddockpens1 AFinal5 April 2009Scunthorpe UnitedNeutral3–255,378Martin, Craddock, Gnakpaaet C League table LUT Player statistics Last match played on 2 May 2009. Players with a zero in every column only appeared as unused substitutes.Luton 2008/2009 player appearances http://www.soccerbase.com/squad_season.sd?seasonid=138&teamid=2910 Soccerbase Centurycomm 3 May 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090831003753/http://www.soccerbase.com/squad_season.sd?seasonid=138&teamid=2910 31 August 2009 dead dmy-all No.Pos.NameLeagueFA CupLeague CupFL TrophyTotalDisciplineAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAppsGoals13px13px1GKENG Dean Brill230001010250002DFFRA Claude Gnakpa19 (8)130205 (1)229 (9)3703DFENG Sol Davis22 (2)11 (1)0202027 (3)1514DFIRL Keith Keane400201 (1)050480315DFENG Ian Roper18 (1)320003023 (1)3606DFENG George Pilkington1800 (1)0201020 (1)0107MFIRL Garreth O'Connor301 (1)0001 (1)05 (2)0107MFENG Ian Henderson14 (4)100000014 (4)1208MFENG Kevin Nicholls16 (3)020201021 (3)0619FWENG Sam Parkin15 (8)400201 (2)018 (10)45010FWENG Ryan Charles0 (10)1000 (1)11 (1)01 (12)20011MFIRL Lewis Emanuel17 (3)10 (1)0201020 (4)12012DFENG Harry Worley6 (2)000001 (1)07 (3)00012FWNGR Akanni-Sunday Wasiu2 (3)10000002 (3)10012MFENG David Livermore80000000802014MFENG Asa Hall35 (7)10201 (1)04 (1)142 (9)112015DFENG Ed Asafu-Adjaye17 (2)000005022 (2)01016MFENG Rossi Jarvis31 (4)12 (1)01 (1)16134 (6)34017MFENG Kevin Watson2 (4)01 (1)01 (1)00 (1)04 (7)01018FWENG Chris Martin39 (1)1130205 (1)249 (2)1311119FWENG Drew Talbot4 (3)00 (2)000206 (5)01020DFIRL Michael Spillane35 (3)331106045 (3)48021GKIRL Conrad Logan2203010403001022FWENG Josh Klein-Davies0 (1)00000000 (1)00022DFENG Mark Bower1610000001613023MFENG Tristan Plummer0 (5)0001 (1)10 (1)02 (7)10023FWENG Wayne Andrews1 (6)01 (1)000103 (7)01024FWENG Tom Craddock271000003230125025DFENG George Beavan3 (1)010001 (1)05 (2)00026DFENG Richard Jackson00000000000026GKWAL Lewis Price10000010200028MFNIR Paul McVeigh9 (4)330002 (2)014 (6)31029FWENG Jordan Patrick0 (2)00000000 (2)00030MFENG Mark Farthing00000000000031FWENG Marc Pugh3 (1)00000003 (1)00032FWENG Kevin Gallen26 (3)300000026 (3)31033DFENG Jake Howells14 (14)030003 (2)020 (16)03035GKENG David Button00000000000035DFENG Jack Wood00000000000036GKENG Aaron Fletcher00000000000039FWENG Harry Hogarth00000000000040FWENG Scott Sinclair0000000 (1)00 (1)000 Managerial statistics Only competitive games from the 2008–09 season are included. Correct as of 13 November 2009. NameNat.FromToRecordHonoursPLDWDLGFGAW%Mick HarfordENG16 January 20081 October 200957172218707829.8Football League Trophy Awards Awarded on 26 April 2009,LTSC Awards Night Winners http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1640544,00.html Luton Town F.C. 26 April 2009 29 April 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090430145437/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1640544%2C00.html 30 April 2009 dead except Loyal Luton award awarded on 24 April 2009.Loyal Luton http://www.loyalluton.com/ https://web.archive.org/web/20070320042925/http://www.loyalluton.com/ dead 20 March 2007 Loyal Luton Supporters Club 24 April 2009 3 May 2009 AwardNameNo.Pos.NotesLuton Town Supporters Club Player of the YearIRL Keith Keane4DFLoyal Luton Supporters Club Player of the YearIRL Keith Keane4DFPlayers' Player of the YearENG Asa Hall14MFYoung Player of the YearENG Jake Howells33DFInternet Player of the YearIRL Keith Keane4DFLTSC Junior Members' Player of the YearIRL Michael Spillane20DFGoal of the SeasonENG Chris Martin18FWmartin D Transfers In DatePlayerFromFeeNotes 7 August 2008 France Claude Gnakpa Peterborough United Free After the wait, here's the first eight! http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1360794,00.html Luton Town F.C. 8 August 2008 5 November 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081206083423/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1360794%2C00.html 6 December 2008 dead Mick Harford http://www.lutonfc.com/harfordtransfers.asp Luton FC 30 April 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090105182913/http://www.lutonfc.com/harfordtransfers.asp 5 January 2009 dead dmy-all 7 August 2008 England Ian Roper Walsall Free 7 August 2008 England George Pilkington Port Vale Free 7 August 2008 England Kevin Nicholls Preston North End Free 7 August 2008 England Asa Hall Birmingham City Free 7 August 2008 England Rossi Jarvis Norwich City Free 8 August 2008 England Kevin Watson Colchester United Free Three more sign for Hatters http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10372~1361682,00.html Luton Town F.C. 8 August 2008 5 November 2008 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20120210205651/http://www.lutontown.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0%2C%2C10372~1361682%2C00.html 10 February 2012 6 October 2008 Ireland Garreth O'Connor Unattached 17 October 2008 England Wayne Andrews Unattached 2 January 2009 England Ian Henderson Unattached 14 January 2009 England Kevin Gallen Milton Keynes Dons Free 30 January 2009 England Tom Craddock Middlesbrough £80,000 Striker Craddock signs for Luton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/luton_town/7854485.stm BBC 27 January 2009 30 January 2009 26 May 2009 England Andy Burgess Rushden & Diamonds Free 28 May 2009 Saint Kitts and Nevis Adam Newton Brentford Free 8 June 2009 England Alan White Darlington Free 17 June 2009 England Mark Tyler Unattached Out DatePlayerToFeeNotes 1 July 2008 Jamaica Richard Langley Released 15 July 2008 England Darren Currie Chesterfield Free 17 July 2008 England Calvin Andrew Crystal Palace £80,000 23 July 2008 Ireland David Bell Norwich City £600,000 29 July 2008 England Zac Barrett Cambridge City Free 8 August 2008 England Alan Goodall Chesterfield Free 21 August 2008 England Richard Jackson Hereford United Free 28 August 2008 Ireland Stephen O'Leary Hereford United Free 1 October 2008 England Paul Underwood Released 14 December 2008 Ireland Garreth O'Connor Released 2 January 2009 England Kevin Watson Released 9 January 2009 England Matthew Spring Charlton Athletic £50,000 16 January 2009 England Wayne Andrews Released End of season England Sam Parkin Released End of season England Dean Morgan Released End of season Northern Ireland Paul McVeigh Released End of season England Sol Davis Released End of season England Dean Brill Released Loans in DatePlayerFromEnd dateNotes 7 August 2008 England Chris Martin Norwich City 3 May 2009 7 August 2008 England Tristan Plummer Bristol City 8 October 2008 8 August 2008 Ireland Michael Spillane Norwich City 3 May 2009 8 August 2008 England Josh Klein-Davies Bristol Rovers 13 August 2008 21 August 2008 Ireland Conrad Logan Leicester City 2 February 2009 12 September 2008 England Marc Pugh Shrewsbury Town 14 October 2008 18 September 2008 England Harry Worley Leicester City 18 November 2008 17 October 2008 England Tom Craddock Middlesbrough 17 January 2009 14 November 2008 England Kevin Gallen Milton Keynes Dons 14 January 2009 15 January 2009 Nigeria Akanni-Sunday Wasiu Colchester United 15 February 2009 26 January 2009 England Mark Bower Bradford City 17 April 2009 2 February 2009 Wales Lewis Price Derby County 2 March 2009 6 March 2009 England David Button Tottenham Hotspur 6 April 2009 26 March 2009 England David Livermore Brighton & Hove Albion 3 May 2009 5 June 2009 England Liam Hatch Peterborough United End of 2009–10 season Loans out DatePlayerToEnd dateNotes 31 July 2008 England Matthew Spring Sheffield United 31 December 2008 29 August 2008 England Dean Morgan Leyton Orient 3 May 2009 22 September 2008 England George Beavan Salisbury City 22 October 2008 21 October 2008 England Sam Parkin Leyton Orient 19 January 2009 26 January 2009 England George Beavan Grays Athletic 30 April 2009 26 January 2009 England Harry Hogarth Grays Athletic 30 April 2009 27 January 2009 England Drew Talbot Chesterfield 3 May 2009 26 March 2009 England Ryan Charles Kettering Town 30 April 2009 See also List of Luton Town F.C. seasons Footnotes A. pens1 Luton won 4–3 in a penalty shootout. B. pens2 Luton won 4–2 in a penalty shootout. C. aet Luton Town won the match 3–2 after extra time, after the score was 2–2 after 90 minutes. D. martin The goal of the season was chosen to be Chris Martin's goal on 5 April against Scunthorpe United at Wembley Stadium in the Football League Trophy final. References 30em Category:Luton Town F.C. seasons Luton Town