Here is Why Marvelous Nakamba Played for Luton Town’s U21s Amid Transfer Speculation

Here is Why Marvelous Nakamba Played for Luton Town’s U21s Amid Transfer Speculation

Luton Town head coach Matt Bloomfield has shed light on Marvelous Nakamba’s recent appearance for the club’s U21 side.

He clarified that the Zimbabwean midfielder is still on a careful recovery programme following a long-term knee injury.

Also Read: Marvelous Nakamba Returns to Action Amid Uncertainty Over Luton Town Future

Missed Pre-Season and Opening Match

Marvelous Nakamba was notably absent from Luton’s pre-season preparations, opting to train alone. He also missed the season opener against AFC Wimbledon last Friday, a development that sparked speculation over his future at the club, particularly after the team’s relegation from the English Championship.

Also Read: Luton Keep Marvelous Nakamba But Release Chelsea Legend and Rising Zimbabwean Prospect

45 Minutes for the U21s

The 30-year-old made a return to competitive action on Wednesday, featuring in the U21s’ friendly match against Leyton Orient. Bloomfield confirmed that this was part of a gradual return to match fitness after the knee injury he sustained in November 2023.

“Marv’s working his way back to full fitness. He’s played for the under-21s, which is good – he’s got 45 minutes under his belt,” Bloomfield told reporters.

Careful Management Due to Past Injury

Bloomfield explained that Nakamba cannot yet train at the same intensity as the rest of the squad.

“He can’t train every day of the week like some of our others because he had a knee injury a couple of years ago. So we’ve had to take it slow with him,” the coach said.