Luton took into account the view of some fans when former manager Gary Brabin returned to Kenilworth Road this summer, chief executive Gary Sweet has confirmed.
Appointed as number two to new manager Graeme Jones’ Brabin re-joined the Hatters seven years after being sacked from the top job, having lost on penalties in the Conference play-off final the year before.
Brabin continued his career managing Southport and Tranmere Rovers, while he has also been an assistant at Port Vale and Blackpool and a coach at Premier League Everton, but his relationship was forged with Jones when 25 years ago when they played together at Doncaster Rovers. The pair also linked up at Goodison Park.
Writing in his match-day programme notes for Friday’s 3-3 draw with Middlesbrough, Sweet revealed the esteem in which the 2020 board have held Brabin, while taking into account his credentials and fans’ views towards him.
“A special warm welcome back to Gary Brabin as Graeme’s assistant,’ Sweet wrote, adding: ‘Upon considering Gary’s appointment we fully reviewed his previous service with us and, in particular, some supporters’ perspective of his re-introduction.
‘However you personally measure his past connection with us, the truth is that Brabs is an excellent, well-respected coach who is highly trusted by Graeme and who has, despite the circumstances of his previous closure, always had a warm affection for our club, always offered a helping hand to assist our progress to whomever has been manager.
‘Bar none, in his time, Gary’s popularity in the dressing room and offices at Kenilworth Road has been second to none and his energy, drive and personality – not to mention his coaching skills – will be a valuable addition to the team.’
