Makosso was ‘disappointed’ at lack of Luton action but boss hails ‘excellent’ full debut

Christ Makosso had been disappointed not to feature for Luton for almost two months after joining the club, but he had a full debut to remember against Portsmouth and boss Matt Bloomfield hopes it gives him the confidence to help the Hatters in their Championship relegation battle. 

The Congolese was signed from Belgian side RWD Molenbeek on New Year’s Day, but eight days later the Hatters parted way with former boss Rob Edwards and while he featured for the under-21s, he hadn’t been in a first-team match-day squad until derby day at Watford on February 23.

Then, the 20-year-old was introduced from the bench after a disastrous first half where Luton conceded twice and he was part of a changed second half side that kept the Hornets out, though they still lost 2-0 and he was rewarded with his first start at home to Pompey on Saturday. 

Makosso helped the Hatters to their first win in 13 Championship games, shutting out Portsmouth, while Jordan Clark bagged the winner to move Town three points from safety.

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“He’s obviously come to Luton to play and he’s been disappointed not to contribute so far, but he’s played under-21 games and he does have a lot of assets that need to be a very good defender. 

“He’s got a lot to learn, so it’s going to take some time with him to dip him in and take him out.

“As with any young players, there’s going to be peaks and troughs. And in defensive areas, it’s tough because, a mistake can lead to something, in front of goal. 

“But, he’s done everything that we could have asked of him so far and we hope that will give them confidence to become even more of a contributor for us.”

As well as his performance, Makosso endeared himself to the Kenilworth Road crowd, urging them to raise the noise levels, first after thwarting Portsmouth’s main danger man Josh Murphy.

Bloomfield said: “Murphy is a massive threat for Portsmouth. Extreme pace, one-v-one moments and there was a couple of times last Sunday at Watford that Christ showed that pace and that one-v-one defensive ability. And we felt like we needed that down that right hand side. That was the reason for it [his start]. 

“Obviously, it was a big call because he’s a young boy learning his game. But, we felt like it could be a big thing for us and I thought he did excellent.”