Luton Town striker Nahki Wells has revealed that his early-season struggles in front of goal had begun to affect his confidence before finding form in the FA Cup.
The 35-year-old forward, who joined Luton Town on a free transfer in the summer following his release from Bristol City, admitted that the pressure had been mounting after scoring just once in his opening 11 league appearances for the Hatters.
Despite his experience and proven record in the Championship, Wells had endured a difficult adjustment to life at Kenilworth Road.
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— Luton Town FC (@LutonTown) September 13, 2025
‘I Needed That Goal’
Speaking after Luton’s FA Cup first-round tie, the Bermuda international confessed that the lack of goals had been weighing heavily on him.
“I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t getting to me,” Wells said. “As a striker, when you’re brought in to score goals and it’s not happening, you start thinking about it a bit too much. I’ve been working hard, staying patient, and it was a relief to finally see one go in.”
Wells’ form had sparked debate among supporters after he missed two penalties in successive matches against Doncaster Rovers and Mansfield Town, with a number of gilt-edged chances also going begging, including a crucial miss at Northampton Town.
However, manager Jack Wilshere opted to show faith in the veteran forward, selecting him in a strong side against National League opposition — a decision that paid off as Wells rediscovered his scoring touch.
Backing From Wilshere and the Squad
Wilshere has consistently backed Wells to find his rhythm, describing him as “a leader with the right mentality” for the younger players in the squad. The striker has also been putting in the work behind the scenes, ranking second in shots for Luton Town this season behind Milli Alli, with 19 attempts and 7 on target.
Rolling back the years 😁 pic.twitter.com/jMVIEzCAQp
— Luton Town FC (@LutonTown) November 4, 2025
Wells’ record across his career suggests that his confidence will soon translate into consistent goals. During his previous spell in League One with Bradford City in 2013–14, he scored 14 times in just 19 games before earning a move to Huddersfield Town, later featuring for Burnley and Queens Park Rangers before joining Bristol City.
“I’ve been in this situation before,” he added. “You just have to keep working. The lads have been brilliant, the manager’s been supportive, and I know the goals will come once I get on a run.”
Turning Point for the Hatters?
With Luton Town looking to build momentum under Wilshere, Wells’ resurgence could prove crucial. The Hatters have struggled for consistency in the opening months of the season, but the experienced striker’s perseverance and leadership have been highlighted as key factors in the club’s push up the League One table.
As Luton prepare for a busy run of fixtures, Wells’ rediscovered confidence may be perfectly timed. A fit and firing version of the former Bristol City man could be the spark needed to reignite their campaign — and silence any lingering doubts about his impact at Kenilworth Road.
