Town starlets pull off Italian job

Based at Sportilia in the mountains near Santa Sofia, previously used by the Italian Football Federation, they took on teams from Cesena, Bologna and Forli.

Tour leader and head of youth operations Matt Stannard said: “We tour at least twice a season with each age group up to U14 as part of each player’s individual development.”

Cesena on May 28 proved to be the toughest of the three games for most of the age groups as Town struggled with the physical and technical ability of the Italians.

The Bologna games the following day proved easier for the Town as they adapted to the different challenges they faced and by the final day against Forli, they were flying.

Overall Luton walked away with three pieces of silverware, which should have been four, but the U12s lost on penalties having dominated the game.

Managing director Gary Sweet added: “We’re delighted at our youth academy’s performance in Italy last week.”

Town’s academy staff are busy preparing for next season with the boys due back for training on July 1.

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.