Luton Town striker Nahki Wells believes being dropped earlier this season provided the wake-up call he needed during a difficult first campaign at Kenilworth Road.
The experienced forward arrived at Luton in the summer following the end of his spell with Bristol City, bringing with him a reputation built on years of consistent goalscoring in the Championship.
However, his first few months with the Hatters did not go to plan. Despite expectations that he would lead the line during the club’s push for promotion, Wells struggled to find his rhythm early in the campaign.
The Bermuda international managed just three goals in his opening 21 appearances and also saw two penalty attempts go astray, a run that eventually led to him being left out of the starting line-up.
Luton Town striker hoping for strong finish
Being dropped forced Wells to reassess his performances, something he now admits proved to be an important moment in his season.
“It was a bit of a rude awakening when I was taken out of the side.
“It made me look at my own performances and realise I needed to raise my level.”
Recent weeks suggest the striker may now be turning a corner. A long-range effort against Lincoln City appeared to kickstart his improvement, and he has since added further goals against Burton Albion and Port Vale.
Wells also found the net during Luton’s 2-1 Vertu Trophy victory against Northampton Town in midweek, bringing his total to seven goals from 32 appearances in all competitions this season.
Three of those strikes have come in his last five league starts, an encouraging return as Luton approach the final stretch of their League One campaign.
Experienced forward embracing responsibility
Now 35-years-old, Wells is among the most experienced players in the Luton squad, and he believes that experience should allow him to play a decisive role as the season reaches its conclusion.
The forward admitted he wants to become a key attacking figure during the run-in, helping the Hatters maintain momentum as they chase their objectives in League One.
“I want to be that talisman for the team.
“I feel like I’ve got the experience and ability to help the group in these important games.”
With several crucial fixtures still to come, Wells will be hoping his recent improvement continues and that his goals can provide the spark Luton need.
Experience could prove pivotal
Wells has the experience and track record to influence Luton’s run-in if his recent form continues. After a slow start to life at Kenilworth Road, the final weeks of the campaign could yet reshape how his first season at the club is judged.
If the goals keep coming, the striker may still deliver the impact supporters expected when he arrived in the summer.
