Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza
Zimpapers Sports Hub
WARRIORS captain Marvelous Nakamba has thrown his full support behind Jack Wilshere’s appointment as Luton Town manager, describing the former Arsenal and England midfielder as the right man to turn the club’s fortunes around.
Wilshere’s arrival at Kenilworth Road was confirmed this week following the sacking of Matt Bloomfield, who lasted less than a year in charge.
The 32-year-old takes over a side stuck in 11th place in League One after suffering back-to-back relegations from the Premier League and Championship.
For Wilshere, it’s a homecoming of sorts. Before joining Arsenal at the age of nine, he spent a short stint in Luton’s youth ranks, a link Nakamba believes could help rekindle the club’s spirit.
“He is a coach who commands respect, both in football and in life,” said Nakamba. “The club’s trust in him is significant, and we have already welcomed him warmly.”
The Zimbabwean midfielder, who has been one of the team’s senior voices, said the new era calls for a total mindset shift after two disappointing campaigns.
“The last two years were not our standard,” he said. “We must reset our mindset, reclaim our winning identity, and begin the hard work of climbing back up.”
Luton face Mansfield Town on Saturday, and Nakamba is confident they can start Wilshere’s reign on a positive note.
“My playing time has been limited in the past due to unforeseen injuries, but I’m slowly getting back to my best,” he said.
“This gives me another opportunity to help the team achieve good results. The squad has enough belief, we just need things to start working for us. I’m optimistic about the future and I believe the coach will bring new dynamism to our play.”
Nakamba recently featured for Zimbabwe in their back to back World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Lesotho in Johannesburg. With his fitness improving, he is expected to play a pivotal role in Luton’s rebuild under Wilshere.
Mathew Masinge