MOORE TO FILL THE VOID INSISTS NATHAN
NATHAN JONES is backing Stuart Moore to establish himself between the Hatters’ sticks after losing Christian Walton to parent club Brighton on transfer deadline day.
Walton, an England Under-21 international, was recalled by the Seagulls as back-up to David Stockdale after regular deputy Niki Maenpaa suffered an ankle injury.
Luton acted quickly to bring in Moore from Reading, as well as Arsenal goalkeeper Matt Macey, 22.
Despite losing “the best goalkeeper in the league” in Walton, manager Jones says replacement Moore can become a strong presence, despite the hurried nature of his arrival from the Madejski Stadium.
The 22-year-old played for the Hatters in their 3-2 loss to Cheltenham Town, just a day after appearing for Reading’s development side.
“It’s not ideal especially for a goalkeeper,” Jones said. “(We conceded) so early in the game as well, to put pressure on, because they are a good side from set-pieces.
“He was literally straight in. I was at Tottenham versus Southampton U23 game on Monday night and we found out there was a possibility Christian might get recalled.
“That wasn’t guaranteed until the morning.
“Then, we had to put in the contingency plans, which we have in place anyway because we have our lists.
“We got that early, so we knew Stuart was going to come in. But then it’s the time he has to come here.
“He has to sign and spend the afternoon in the hotel.
“He comes in and meets the lads for the first time and it’s a home game in front of thousands. It’s a bit of a whirlwind for a young keeper. That probably reflected in the game.
“Now he’s had a bit more time to settle down and spend time with us, we’ll see the real Stuart Moore.”