We are proud to announce the signing of seven players on professional development contracts.
Claude Kayibanda
Last season’s under-18 head boy was born in Enfield and is a central defender who can also operate at full-back or in midfield. Claude joined the Hatters as an under-12 having previously been playing for Focus Football.
In his own words: “I’m a versatile player who can play in many roles as a defender and midfielder. I work hard in and out of possession and lead the team with my communication skills. I see myself as a strong and aggressive player on the pitch.”
Jack Lorentzen-Jones
Goalscoring midfielder Jack has been with the Hatters since joining from Bromham as an under-8. A regular for the under-18s last season and broke into the development squad under Adrian Forbes.
In his own words: “Attacking midfielder who likes to create and score goals. Enjoys shooting from range and isn’t afraid to do so. I like getting on the ball in all areas of the pitch and try to get on it as much as possible if that’s from the goalkeeper or higher up the pitch. I am a good passer who can spray long distant passes but likes to play quick one touch football with teammates through other teams.”
Tyrell Giwa
London-born right-sided defender Tyrell has been with the Hatters since joining at under-12 level. Previously with Hemel Hempstead Town, Tyrell captained the under-18s last season and was a regular for Alex Lawless' side.
In his own words: “I am an athletic full-back/wingback who likes to join in the attacks as well as defending the goal. I am agile and quick and like to make runs in behind. I’m enthusiastic and energetic, only want to win. When in advanced areas I like to put in crosses and run at other fullbacks. Defensively I’m successful and don’t lose many 1v1 battles.”
Dominic Dos Santos Martins
Midfielder who joined the Town as an under-18 who, after impressive displays for the academy, was called up to the first team last season, appearing twice on the substitutes’ bench in the Premier League.
In his own words: “I’m very self-motivated and always aspire to do well and work hard every day. I’m a very aggressive and technical midfielder and read the game very well.”
Jordan Iwhiwhu
Nigeria-born striker Jordan signed for the Hatters as an under-17 having previously been on the books at Bristol Rovers. The pacey frontman has also been selected for the England College Football Team.
In his own words: “I’m a quick and powerful striker who loves scoring goals as well as creating for teammates. I’m direct in front of goal and enjoy 1v1 opportunities. I don’t mind holding up or running beyond and I'm very both footed.”
Liam Coyne
Luton-born goalkeeper and son for former Town defender Chris who signed for the Hatters this summer. Grew up in Australia and played for Perth Glory, Sorrento and Baywater City.
In his own words: “I am a hardworking, dedicated goalkeeper who wants to win and demands more of myself every time and wants to get better and improve at everything I do. I am a good shot stopper with a good left foot.”
Vladimir Paternoster
Summer 2024 arrival Vladimir was born in Milan. The centre-half was previously on the books at Shrewsbury, Hayes & Yeading and Tottenham.
In his own words: “I am a ball playing centre back that likes to drive out from the back, pick out passes and defend 1v1.”
Henry Blackledge
Australian goalkeeper Henry joined the Hatters last season after a successful trial. Began his career with Western Pride in Australia’s third tier, making his senior debut as a 15-year-old, before spells with Brisbane Olympic and Brisbane Roar.
In his own words: “I strive to be a committed professional and go beyond where others would stop. I have a high work ethic which allows me to learn quickly and improve technically. I think my biggest weakness is my consistency although I feel like I have been improving in this area a lot recently.”
