Hammers starlet backed to challenge for Hatters first team spot

Hatters first team coach Hakan Hayrettin has backed on-loan West Ham youngster Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu to push for a place against Alfreton Town in the Skrill Premier on Saturday, writes Mike Simmonds.

The 20-year-old gave a hugely impressive man of the match performance as Town beat Staines Town 2-0 in the FA Trophy on Tuesday night.

Selected in his preferred midfield position, Mpanzu dominated the Skrill South opponents with a display of real energy and power.

Hayrettin said: “Pelly is someone we’ve been keeping our eye on for a long time.

“He gives us some legs in there, he got forward into the box and drove his team on.

“It’s an added plus as lots of teams might not know about him and if he starts, he’s going to cause a few teams a problem.

“He’s got great athleticism, gets up and down the pitch really well and he will be someone who will add to what we’ve already got.

“I certainly hope he does (press for the first team), but that’s the decision for the manager to make.”

After winning the star man award, Mpanzu tweeted afterwards: “Goood 2-0 win over Staines 2day. Fans were great and i happy with my Man of the Match perfomance.”