Luton Town manager Matt Bloomfield has insisted it was time for his senior players to “step up” as he explained his decision to make seven changes for the Championship clash against Sheffield United.
The Hatters fell to a narrow 1-0 defeat against the promotion challengers at Kenilworth Road, but the performance was significantly improved from their previous outing—a 2-0 loss at Sunderland.
Despite remaining bottom of the table, Bloomfield believes the experience in his squad must now take responsibility in the battle to avoid relegation.
Changes Made to Inject Experience
Bloomfield’s decision to overhaul his starting XI came after fielding a youthful and inexperienced team in midweek. Against Sunderland, players such as Reuell Walters, Joe Johnson, Zack Nelson, Lamine Fanne, and Millenic Alli started, with the five players having fewer than 50 combined second-tier appearances.
For the Sheffield United match, Bloomfield opted for a more experienced lineup. Kal Naismith, Amari’i Bell, Marvelous Nakamba, Liam Walsh, Izzy Jones, Alfie Doughty, and Elijah Adebayo were all recalled, with only Nelson and Fanne left out of the squad entirely.
“We had some more senior players available who have been huge players for this football club for a number of years, who know how to win games,” Bloomfield said. “This is a time for the club’s big players to step up, senior players to step up, and apart from the result, I think they did that.”
Fighting Spirit Restored
Despite the defeat, Luton produced one of their more competitive performances in recent weeks, creating several chances and engaging the home crowd throughout the match. Carlton Morris saw two headers saved, while the Hatters fired numerous shots on target, only to be denied by the Blades’ defence.
Bloomfield highlighted the improved reaction from the fans, contrasting it with previous matches where home defeats had been met with boos. “We needed to get them in the game early and give them something to cheer,” he said. “Our supporters know a good performance when they see one, and they responded to the effort the players put in today.”
Writer’s View
While Luton’s survival hopes remain slim, their performance against Sheffield United was a step in the right direction. Bloomfield’s emphasis on experienced players could provide the leadership required in the final stretch of the season. However, without points on the board, the Hatters’ time in the Championship is running out.
