Midfielder, Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu has signed a new contract at Luton Town.
Mpanzu first joined Luton on a short-term loan from West Ham in November 2013 until early January 2014, yet he impressed enough for Luton to sign him permanently later that month from the Hammers.
The 29 year-old has since scored 23 goals in 364 appearances across all competitions, as he helped Luton climb from the Conference Premier League to League Two at the end of his first season at the Hatters and eventually into League One then Championship by summer 2019.
Mpanzu’s loyalty to Luton eventually paid off last season as he started in their Championship Play-Off Final triumph over Coventry, which secured a debut season in the Premier League and the Hatters’ return to the top-flight for the first time since 1991-92 season.
Luton in return rewarded Mpanzu with a new contract although he is more excited about playing in the top-flight for the first time, as he commented: “It’s great to be back and I’m ready to get to work. Hopefully it’s going to be a great new season for us in the Premier League.”
Mpanzu is the first player to win four promotions from Non League through to the top-light but he is already targeting a start in Luton’s opening away game at Brighton, as he added: “I’ve got to play the Brighton game to make that history first, but once I get through pre-season it should be all good.”
The DR Congo international also iterated that Luton won’t be looking to roll over this season, as he quipped: “We are looking to fight and stay in this league, I cannot wait to contribute to that this season.”
Manager, Rob Edwards added that Mpanzu’s journey is “special” as he praised the midfielder for his loyalty and performances,, as the ex Watford boss said: “”Pelly’s story is such a special one, and everyone knows that now.
“Ever since we came in, his consistency has been brilliant. He is someone who gives everything. He leaves it all out there.”
Edwards also applauded Mpanzu for his leadership skills as he continued: “He leads by example, he’s brave in taking the ball and what he does with it. He’ll assume responsibility for the team.
“On and off the pitch he is just a huge part of what we do, he’s the heartbeat of the dressing room, a brilliant lad who everyone loves.”
Edwards also insisted that Mpanzu is firmly part of his Premier League plans as he added: “So it’s only right that he now gets this opportunity to play in the Premier League, because he’s worked so hard for it.
“He deserves it and I’m sure everyone will agree with me in that his performances last year in our midfield were outstanding and played such a big part in us getting here. Now it will be down to him and everyone else, because we’ve got to try and stay here.”