Luton Town have finalised their managerial shortlist as they ramp up their search for Matt Bloomfield’s replacement.
The 41-year-old found himself cast aside earlier this week following a 2-0 defeat against League One leaders Stevenage last weekend. It was a result which saw Luton tumble towards mid-table, a far cry from their ambitions of immediate promotion back to the Championship.
With tomorrow’s visit of Huddersfield Town postponed due to international call-ups, the Hatters opted to take the opportunity to make wholesale changes in the dugout. Their next fixture sees them host Mansfield Town on October 18th.
Three Man Shortlist Revealed
Luton’s interest in Leyton Orient boss Richie Wellens was revealed earlier this week, with the O’s demanding a release clause of £1,000,000 for his signature. Blackpool are also said to be keen after parting company with Steve Bruce on Saturday.
The former Premier League side aren’t putting all their eggs in one basket though. According to Football League World, Jack Wilshere is also in the running. The ex-Norwich City interim boss is another that has been linked with the position for the majority of the week, but it appears as if the interest is genuine.
Completing the shortlist is Luke Williams, who has been without a job since leaving Swansea City in February. Having spent a stint working at Bristol Airport throughout the summer, the 44-year-old has previously admitted that he is keen on a return to the sport. Speaking to BBC Sport Wales in June, the former Notts County head coach said:
“I am out of my comfort zone (working at Bristol Airport)
“I am trying to push myself to do something completely different.
“Football is challenging but I know football – it’s what I do. This job has been really eye-opening for me and I hope it’s going to help me in my next role in football.”
Writer’s View
Luton know that they have to get their next appointment right if they are going to stand any chance of getting out of League One this season. Their shortlist shows that they have put some thought into who succeeds Matt Bloomfield, but they all seemingly offer something different.
Wellens is a manager who has earned plenty of experience at this level and has showed during his time at Leyton Orient that he is more than capable of building a squad capable of challenging for promotion. Alternatively, Jack Wilshere has only been in charge of two senior games but is very highly rated.
Luke Williams is a bit of a curveball but it is only a matter of time before someone tempts the former Swindon boss back into football. Although he left Swansea after a run of poor form, he was popular with supporters and could be the man to galvanise the stands at Kenilworth Road.
