Buckle praise for departing Essam

Hatters boss Paul Buckle was full of praise for defender Connor Essam after Gillingham declined to renew his loan deal at Kenilworth Road last week, writes Mark Wood.

The 20-year-old centre-half made nine league appearances for Luton during his two-month loan stay and Buckle admitted he was disappointed he hadn’t been able to extend it further.

He said: “I think he’s been great for us.

“His record in the team has been outstanding.

“It’s been a successful loan and I’m sure Connor’s got other interest now in terms of other clubs after him, that’s what I’m led to believe.”

On leaving the club, Essam tweeted: “Have now returned to Gillingham, big thanks to everyone at Luton. Really enjoyed my two months!

“Will be keeping an eye on the Luton promotion push!

Buckle was reluctant to bring in another player on loan and is now looking for some of Town’s other defenders to step up to the mark.

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