Luton Town has signed striker John McAtee from Grimsby Town but have sent him back to Grimsby on loan.
McAtee’s move to Luton comes after he enjoyed a strong season with Grimsby last season as he scored 16 goals in 39 appearances, as he led the Mariners back to League Two.
Speaking about his move, McAtee commented: “I see this as a big opportunity for myself coming to the Championship and I’m delighted to get it done.”
Luton however have decided to send him back to Grimsby on a season-long loan in order to continue gaining first-team experience, which McAtee is happy with as he added: “That’s the aim, definitely. I want to get more game time under my belt so when I’m back here next year, I’m ready to go.
“The manager explained to me the values of the club, and it’s clear to see anyway that the club is going in the right direction. We spoke about a plan for me, which sounded good.”
McAtee will be reunited with Grimsby manager – Paul Hurst who previously coached him at Shrewsbury and Scunthorpe United, which the 23 year-old described as “a no-brainer” given his ability to perform under Hurst.
The Hatters though have risen from the National League to Championship across the last decade and McAtee noted similarities between himself and Luton’s rises as he explained: “I’m sure everyone in football has seen Luton Town’s rise for themselves.
“They’ve made that climb quite remarkably when you look at how they’ve done it.
“I’ve definitely taken notice of it and seen the progression, and hopefully this year, for me personally and for Grimsby, I can try and help them get another promotion too.”
McAtee’s previous clubs also include loan spells at Halesowen Town, AFC Telford United, Ashton United, and Curzon Ashton during his stint at Shrewsbury Town, where he began his career.
McAtee is also the older brother of James McAtee who plays for Manchester City.
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