Gray feels cup distractions are a ‘pain in the bum’

Town’s forthcoming cup ties are a real ‘pain in the bum’ according to Hatters forward Andre Gray, writes Mark Wood.

The 21-year-old striker netted both of Luton’s goals in their 2-2 draw at Mansfield Town on Sunday, a result that leaves them just three points off the top, yet bizarrely outside of the play-offs.

On Saturday, Town head to mid-table Blue Square Bet South side Dorchester in the first round of the FA Trophy and the following weekend the two sides meet again in the second round of the FA Cup at Kenilworth Road.

Gray said: “Personally it annoys me because I would rather just get on with the league.

“Being realistic we’re never going to win the FA Cup and the FA Trophy is a bit of a pain in the bum.

“I would rather get on in the league and kick on from there. It’s a lot different playing lower leagues, or higher leagues because it’s just a totally different game.

“It’s a bit of a confidence boost but at the same time it’s a total different kettle of fish when you come back and start playing in the league.”

The striker did admit it’s important the Hatters continue to pick up results in both competitions and he is keen to be involved.

Gray, who has five goals to his name this season, added: “It keeps us ticking over with fitness and trying new things and getting better as a team as a whole.

“I always want to play, I’ll never say I want to be on the bench in any game. So I’d say I’m looking forward to them regardless.”

For all the latest Luton Town FC news, reports, stats, player profiles, live match updates, MOM poll, prediction table and a complete fixture list, visit our Hatters Microsite.