Watson: Luton is a good place to develop
LOUIE Watson says his time at Derby County was a “rollercoaster” after he finally wrapped up a deal to join Championship side Luton Town.
The midfielder’s move to the Hatters was confirmed yesterday after compensation was agreed between the clubs, Watson being one of a number of players whose contract had expired.
The Derby Telegraph understands the Rams will bank money running into six figures for the 21-year-old, who was offered a new deal, which protected them from losing him on a free transfer.
Watson, who joined Derby from West Ham in 2020, made 15 appearances, six of them last season. Four were in the Championship and two in the League Cup.
Reflecting on his time at Pride Park, Watson said: “It has been a rollercoaster. A lot of positives.
“Coming from West Ham’s academy and going into Derby’s academy, getting my chance in the first team within the first few months and really striving in that environment was a positive.
“I’m just excited to get into a team now who were in the play-offs last year and doing really well.
“They have a good team ethic and I want to really settle myself in, get used to the team and get used to the boys, the gaffer and push on.”
Luton were vying for promotion to the Premier League last season under boss Nathan Jones.
They reached the Championship play-offs but were knocked out by Huddersfield Town in the semifinals.
Jones has forged a good reputation for developing young players and Watson is hopeful he can break into the first team under the Welshman.
“I’m delighted to get it over the line. I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time really, and I’m buzzing to join Luton Town,” he said.
“Speaking to the gaffer and seeing the team, no one is a finished article and we’re trying to get to the top of the game. The group of boys all want to get better each day.
“The gaffer pushes standards so it’s an ideal scenario to get the most out of my career and to get to where I need to get to.”