Luton Town legend Pelly-Ruddock Mpanzu has left Luton to join League One side Rotherham United on loan until the end of the season.
The midfielder has been at Kenilworth Road since joining on loan from West Ham United in November 2013, joining permanently in the January 2014 transfer window.
Since then, he’s risen through the leagues with Luton, making history as the only player ever to play in every division from the Conference to the Premier League with the same club, winning four promotions to with the Hatters.
Mpanzu departs having made 412 appearances for the Hatters, but his appearances have been restricted this term, making just one start and he moves to the New York Stadium to joing the promotion-chasing Millers.
Town manager Matt Bloomfield told the club’s website: “Pelly hasn’t played loads of football this season, with just one league start. He wants to be out there playing and it’s the right things to do to allow him to go to Rotherham and do that.
“He’s been a massive player for this football club for so many years and he’s someone I really respect for the longevity and the loyal service he’s given to Luton Town. He’s been great since we came in three weeks ago.
“But at this moment in time with the competition for places we’ve got in central midfield, it’s right for him to have the opportunity to go and play regular football. He’s a Luton legend and we wish him the best of the luck on loan at Rotherham.”
CEO Gary Sweet added: “It’ll be strange not to see and hear Pelly around the place. He’s been a massive part of this last generation, has achieved so much in his Luton career and we thank him for the journey we’ve all enjoyed with him.
“It’s a decision that was felt was the best for Pelly by all, including him and his advisers, because he ultimately needs to play more football.
“We all wish Pelly the best at Rotherham and helps them to a successful end to the season, but it will be great to see him back for at least one more game in the future.”
Rotherham United Manager Steve Evans told The Millers’ website: “From the very start of the window Pelly was our number one target and I’m absolutely delighted that our patience has been rewarded,”
Mpanzu said: “As soon as I spoke to the manager I knew I wanted to get the deal done.
“To leave a club I have really affinity with in Luton, it would have to be for a challenge that really excites me and this certainly is that.
“I’m really looking forward to getting out there and showing everyone what I can do and hopefully I can help the club achieve their ultimate aim of getting into the play-offs and winning promotion.”
Also following Mpanzu out of Luton on loan on transfer deadline day was Cauley Woodrow and Tom Holmes, who joined Blackburn Rovers and Belgian side FCV Dender EH on loan.
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