Luton Town under-18s kick off their 2024/25 Youth Alliance South East Division campaign this weekend as they travel to Oxford United.

The young Hatters will want to add to their back-to-back title successes as Joe Deeney takes over as the lead coach from Alex Lawless.

The new coach was full of praise and optimism for the season ahead and knows a win on Saturday would set them in good stead.

Deeney said: “I’m delighted to be taking the role of such an exciting side!

“From the top level and throughout the club we want to build a winning culture and that starts as soon as you step on the training pitch.

“We want to produce the best players from the academy, and we are really lucky that Rob and the other first-team coaches give so many young players chances.”

Deeney praised the hard work of his players during pre-season but also expects their opponents tomorrow to be a tough test.

“From what we know and saw last season it isn’t going to be an easy game,” Deeney explained.

“They are a good side and are set up well, but getting the three points is the most important thing for tomorrow.”

Deeney ended his 33-year association with the club in 2016 before his return this summer, so he knows better than most about the values each player must have while representing Luton Town.

“Every day on the training ground, we instil the values of the club, hard work, honesty and integrity.

“Each time they step onto that pitch they must show them qualities and values. Nothing in this club will ever be given so they must go out and earn it.”

You can watch Deeney’s under-18s begin their 24/25 league campaign on Saturday; spectators can visit Oxford United’s training ground (Horspath Road, OX4 2RR) and kick-off is at 11am.