Luton Town Manager Edwards: Future ‘Out of My Hands’

Luton Town manager Rob Edwards has stated that his future is “out of my hands” following the team’s 5-1 defeat to Middlesbrough, despite retaining the support of his players. This recent loss marks the fourth occasion under Edwards’ 92 games in charge that Luton has suffered a four-goal defeat, with two of these occurring against Manchester City. Ahead of the upcoming second anniversary of his appointment on 17 November 2022, Luton currently sits in 21st place in the Championship after Saturday’s match. The team has accumulated 15 points from 15 games, remaining outside the relegation positions solely on goal difference. Hatters captain Carlton Morris has asserted that Edwards’ popularity within the dressing room remains as strong as ever. “I can only speak for myself and on the players’ behalf,” Morris informed BBC Three Counties Radio. “But we’re 100% behind him. We love the gaffer. He’s done so much for this club.” Edwards commented on the game, saying: “It was a really difficult afternoon. It’s one of those days in the end where you want the ground to swallow you up.” When questioned about his immediate prospects as the international break approaches, Edwards responded: “That is out of my hands. I want what’s best for the club.” With only four wins this season and having now experienced his joint-worst defeat as Luton boss, speculation has arisen that his tenure at Kenilworth Road might be drawing to a close. Edwards, who guided Luton to promotion to the Premier League in May 2023, told BBC Three Counties Radio: “If it is, then I’ve loved my time here. It’s been two incredible years where we’ve had incredible highs and reached heights that we probably never thought we would, or were capable of.” He further acknowledged: “But right now, results are too inconsistent and performances have been too inconsistent too. Clearly, I know I’m responsible for that.” Edwards reiterated his dedication, stating: “I love this club. Me and my staff have given everything, and always will. I want what’s right for the club.” He also extended an apology to the supporters: “But the supporters are the most important people at any football club. I said that when I first arrived. They’ve spent their hard-earned money either leaving first thing this morning to come a really long way or coming up last night. I want to apologise to them. They’re my main concern right now.” The frustration of the Hatters skipper was evident in a second-half incident involving Boro duo Delano Burgzorg and Luke Ayling, which resulted in Morris receiving a yellow card while his side was trailing 4-0. Morris, who had entered the game as a second-half substitute after being left on the bench to refresh the team following a series of matches, made an “over-zealous tackle” after becoming infuriated by an unchallenged exchange of passes between the two Boro players. Morris explained: “If I see players passing the ball like that and taking the mick, I’m not going to let that stand. And I don’t think my team-mates should either.” He added: “It was frustrating and I’m disappointed to have got booked but, with my role in the team, it’s my responsibility. Setting the standard for what should and shouldn’t be acceptable.” Looking ahead, Morris stated: “I have a mindset of never letting myself get too low, or too high when it’s going well. We’ve now got this international break to reset and focus. To get in the dressing room next week, ensure the lads are in the right shape to kick on – to focus and make things right.” Rob Edwards and Carlton Morris’s comments were made to Simon Oxley of BBC Three Counties Radio.