Youth team left-back McJannet lands Premier League move
We are delighted to announce that another player has stepped off the Luton Town conveyor belt to join a Premier League club after youth team defender Cameron McJannet signed for Stoke City.
The 17-year-old second-year scholar has agreed to join the Potters on a professional deal for an undisclosed fee.
Left-back McJannet was part of last year’s hugely successful Under-18s side that won the South-East Youth Alliance league and cup double, as well as reaching the quarter-finals of the FA Youth Cup.
Nathan Jones gave the teenager his first taste of senior football during the pre-season friendlies at Boreham Wood and Woking, where he impressed against National League opposition.
“We came to a decision that we didn't want to stand in the boy's way because his pathway is blocked a little bit here,” said Jones. “What we didn't want to do is block his overall career pathway.
“It's a good deal for the club and a good deal for Cameron as well. If he had been closer to our first team, then it wouldn't have been a decision we'd have taken.
“But we felt that it was a good deal all-round because we have some who are ahead of him at the minute and we didn't want to curtail his career development.
“It’s not the only Premier League approach we've had for our players. I keep saying it, but the board have done fantastically well to allow us to keep hold of these players and we aren't a selling club.
“We want to keep moving forward and to do that we have to do certain things. This is a good bit of business for everyone concerned.
“Stoke have got a very good player, we have made good money we can put back into the redevelopment of the football club in all departments, and the young lad gets an opportunity that he dreams of. We wish Cameron every success at Stoke and for the rest of his career.”
Youth team manager Paul Driver added: “I am really pleased for Cameron. He thoroughly deserves this chance with a top club like Stoke.
“He is one of the most organised and professional lads I have had the pleasure to work with – a great role model in how to carry yourself if you want to improve and succeed.”
Cameron, who first played for the Hatters at Under-9s, travelled up to Staffordshire yesterday to conclude the move.
The delighted teenager, who turns 18 next Tuesday, told lutontown.co.uk: “It’s a great, unexpected moved and I’d like to thank everyone at Luton Town who have helped make it possible.
“I first came on trial when I was seven years old, so there are so many coaches I want to thank and especially Paul Driver and Andy Awford for the belief they’ve shown in me.
“Last year was brilliant with the youth team and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being around the senior squad so far this season, so I’d like to thank Nathan and all of his coaches for their help too.
“I’m proud to have played for Luton Town. The club has been such a big part of my life.”
Everyone at Kenilworth Road would like to wish Cameron every success with Stoke City and in his future career.