Rob Edwards departs Luton Town
Luton Town begin search for a new manager after parting ways with Rob Edwards by mutual agreement after two years
Luton Town Football Club has announced that Rob Edwards has left his role as manager following a mutual agreement with the club. The decision comes after discussions held in the wake of Monday night’s defeat at QPR, marking the end of a two-year tenure filled with remarkable highs and notable challenges.
Edwards was appointed in November 2022, taking charge of a team sitting 10th in the Championship and one point outside the play-off places. Together with assistants Richie Kyle and Paul Trollope, he transformed the team’s fortunes, guiding them to a third-place finish. This run included Luton’s first derby win in front of fans for 17 years and a dramatic play-off semi-final victory over Sunderland. The season culminated in a historic penalty shoot-out win against Coventry City in the Championship play-off final at Wembley on 27 May 2023, securing the club’s promotion to the Premier League.
Reflecting on his time at the club, Edwards said: “It’s been a privilege to manage Luton Town Football Club, but now is the right time for me to move on, for the club and me. I’m really proud of what we achieved, not only winning a play-off game, which the club had struggled to do, but also gaining promotion to the Premier League at Wembley. It was the most amazing experience.”
During his time in charge, Edwards became a significant figure in Luton’s history, leading the club through emotional and challenging moments. Notably, he showed composure and empathy when captain Tom Lockyer collapsed on the pitch due to heart issues, first at Wembley and later at Bournemouth in December 2023. Speaking about these events, Edwards said, “What happened at Bournemouth will always remain with me. The medical team’s heroic actions saved Tom’s life, and the most important thing is that he has a great chance to play again. I love you, mate!”
Luton Town CEO Gary Sweet praised Edwards for his contributions to the club, both on and off the pitch. “Rob has given us some of our greatest days to celebrate as Hatters. Those two barnstorming derby victories at Kenilworth Road, the play-off final at Wembley, and our season in the Premier League will live with us forever. Rob has earned himself a legendary status. He leaves not just as a former manager but as a trusted friend who has left his mark on every player and member of staff.”
Despite memorable moments, including the club’s first Premier League win at Goodison Park and a thrilling 4-4 draw at Newcastle, the current season back in the Championship has not gone as planned. Luton struggled to maintain consistent form, particularly in away fixtures. Sweet acknowledged that results this season “have clearly not been acceptable” and added that the decision to part ways was not taken lightly.
“While we supported Rob and his team in every possible way, we all felt action was required to rectify this with 20 league matches still to play,” Sweet said. “It is typical of Rob’s humility that he recognised this himself and worked with us to arrive at this conclusion. On behalf of the board, I want to give him our heartfelt thanks for two years of tireless work and so many memories. We wish him every success for his future career.”
Edwards expressed gratitude to the club’s staff, players, and fans in a heartfelt farewell message. “Thank you to all the amazing staff in the offices, at the stadium, and at the training ground. You’ve been incredible, and I will miss you,” he said. He also highlighted the contributions of the academy and the promise of young talent at the club.
“To the players, I say thank you. Thanks for always giving your best and for delivering in the biggest moments of our lives. To the fans, your support meant the world to me, whether it was during the highs or the more difficult times. I hope to return to Kenilworth Road as a fan one day.”
Luton has appointed assistant coaches Richie Kyle and Paul Trollope, aided by Mick Harford, to take interim charge of the team. Their first test will be Saturday’s FA Cup third-round tie at Nottingham Forest. The search for a permanent replacement is already underway, as the club aims to stabilise its season and make the most of the remaining 20 league matches.
Edwards concluded his statement by thanking his family. “They’ve lived through this rollercoaster with me, and I’m looking forward to spending some time with them before being ready to go again. Once again, it’s been a privilege.”