Amari’i Bell says is relishing trying to fill the flying full-back boots of James Justin as adapts to a key role in Luton’s evolution back to the swashbuckling side that swept the lower leagues before them.
Having signed from Blackburn Rovers in the summer, two years after the Hatters homegrown hero departed for Premier League Leicester, the 27-year-old can hardly be labelled a direct replacement – but there are emerging comparisons.
Not least that Bell is now part of a Town side blossoming back into that front-footed team that claimed historic back-to-back promotions to get to the Championship.
Asked in the Luton Town Supporters’ Trust podcast if he’s relishing trying to fill the big boots of a player like Justin, Bell said: “One hundred per cent. I always welcome a challenge and, for me, in my two previous seasons I wasn’t really playing much. So, I wanted to come somewhere where the team definitely uses the full-backs and strengthen them as well.
“I can play a lot of games and just be happy and be free, contributing to the team in any way I can.”
It was under the tutelage of Manager Nathan Jones that Justin developed into player that Leicester then turned into one of the best full-backs in the country before a cruel injury last term.
The Welshman was instrumental in Bell swapping Lancashire for Luton and he said: “Previously, he’s had full-backs that have moved on to play in the Premier League. Obviously, I wanted to come here and develop as well. It’s an important position for the team and the game in general, how it’s going now.
“The manager was a full-back himself, so it shows he’s a good coach in that position. And if I can come here, work with him, develop and progress further on in my career then that’s something I’d definitely like to do.”
As well as his attacking talents, in just 12 appearances the Jamaica international has featured in every one of the club’s seven league clean sheets, an impressive 58 per cent shut out rate, when he’s been on the pitch.
“I definitely feel like I’ve been doing well,” Bell said, adding: “I would’ve liked to have contributed more to goals and assists. Thats something I’m disappointing in myself. I’m so critical of myself. I am happy, but I believe that I can do more as well.”
The full-back also told the Luton Town Supporters’ Trust podcast about his aspirations to play in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, plus Luton’s promotion potential, the club’s new Power Court stadium and more.
You can listen to the bonus podcast episode here:
