Luton Town manager Jack Wilshere believes Harry Fox has all the attributes to become a first-team player after the Luton-born youngster signed his first professional contract with the Hatters.
The 18-year-old academy graduate has been rewarded for his progress through the youth ranks by putting pen to paper on professional terms after catching Wilshere’s eye during his first season in charge.
Fox, who joined the club as an under-8, made his senior debut in the Vertu Trophy against Brighton Under-21s last October before earning his first start against Swindon Town in the same competition.
Now Wilshere says the versatile player has earned his opportunity through both his ability and attitude.
“Foxy really caught my eye when we came in last season,” the Hatters boss to the club’s website, adding: “He’s got a lovely left foot, which is always going to appeal to me.
“But he earned his debut and game time in the Trophy because he’s adaptable, can cover at left-back and step into midfield as well, and he’s a quick learner.”
Fox was a key member of the academy side that completed an EFL Youth Alliance and Professional Development League Cup double during the 2024/25 season and was named the club’s Premier League Scholar of the Year at the end of last season after achieving distinctions in his college studies.
Wilshere believes there is plenty more to come from the teenager.
“His attitude is spot on, and he’s come back for pre-season in great shape, right up there with the leaders in the running,” he said.
“He’s young and has so much to learn, but someone we know we can develop over the season. He’s a credit to the coaches in the academy who have put so much great work getting him into this position.”
For Fox, signing professional terms at his hometown club marks the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition.
“I’m so excited, you can probably tell by my face,” he said.
“It was raw emotion to find out I’d be getting the chance to continue at the club, I have been here for so long and I only ever wanted to stay, playing for this club means everything to me.
“I’ve had to go through a lot of ups and downs, along the journey there are times where one week you might be the best player on the pitch and the next you’re the worst. It’s all about trusting the process really, I’ve always worked hard and given everything on the pitch.”
The academy graduate is now targeting first-team opportunities under Wilshere during the upcoming League One campaign.
“I’m just ready for the new season to start,” he added.
“I really want to play in front of the fans and show them what I can do. We have a big goal as a team, there is so much to play for and it’d be great to be a part of that.”
Be the first to comment