Experience is rubbing off on Lacey

The Hatters are again relying on the 20-year-old centre-half with experienced defender Anthony Charles sidelined with a shoulder injury. Lacey has risen to the challenge too, helping Luton shut out Forest Green Rovers on Saturday and Cambridge United on Monday.

He said: “I think it’s good to keep on getting clean sheets and we’ve got three so far.

“Steve McNulty next to me is a real leader, he is very good at communicating and talking and helps you through the game.

“In the back four we’ve got a lot of experience and in goal with Mark Tyler as well, he’s played hundreds of games in the league so I couldn’t ask to play in front of anyone better.”

The backing Lacey has been getting from boss John Still has been helping him along as he added: “As a young player if you get a chance in the team you just need to try and take it. I’ve been working hard in training and in matches as well to try and impress.

“It’s very pleasing for me to be in with a shout of a starting spot, especially as the last couple of seasons I’ve been out on loan and getting experience.

“And I think I’ve taken the experience I’ve gained being out on loan and brought it back and put it towards my work at Luton. It’s very pleasing to be in with a chance of playing every week and I think if just try and keep working hard maybe I can make that spot mine.

“It adds a lot of confidence when the manager’s praising you. He’s a manager that looks towards younger players and he’s given me a chance and I’m very grateful for that.”

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