Guttridge chose football over money as he joins Hatters

The 31-year-old signed a two-year deal at Kenilworth Road on Friday after failing to agree a new contract at cash-strapped League Two side Northampton Town where he was told he would no longer be a regular starter.

Guttridge, who had been offered a two-year deal on reduced terms by the Cobblers, said: “I had a meeting with the manager at the end of the season. It was explained we were over budget and had to make cutbacks, which is fine in the current climate.

“The manager offered me a two-year deal on what were reduced terms but was still a good contract, but told me I wasn’t likely to be starting next season and would only be seen as a squad player.

“I took my time and it was a question of do I want to sit on the bench picking up my money and having it easy for a few years or do I want to go elsewhere and play football?.

“But I decided at 31 I’m too young to fill that role and would always choose playing over picking up money for an easy life.”

For the full story, see the Luton News/Dunstable Gazette on sale now, while 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.