First professional deal for highly-rated young midfielder
The Town are delighted to confirm that midfielder Ian Rees has signed his first professional contract with the club.
Rees, who turns 18 a week on Saturday, has impressed manager John Still in training and in four appearances in the FA Trophy this season, and pens a deal until the end of the 2014/15 campaign.
The central midfielder joined the Hatters in 2007 having previously been on the books of both Cambridge United and Rushden & Diamonds.
Having been a virtual ever-present in Paul Driver’s Under-18 squad this season, Rees was handed his first team debut as a substitute in the FA Trophy first round replay against Staines.
The 17-year-old was then given his full debut in the 2-0 win over an experienced Wrexham side in the FA Trophy, in which he hit the post with a shot in the first half.
A substitute appearance in the third round tie at Cambridge followed before Rees made his second start for the first team in the replay against the U’s three days later, putting in another mature display in central midfield.
Manager John Still told lutontown.co.uk: “Ian has shown a tremendous appetite for football and his enthusiasm and ability has really shone through and impressed myself and the staff.
“Ian’s performances in the FA Trophy, where he came up against very seasoned professionals, showed a great level of maturity. He wasn’t fazed by the situation and took the opportunity with both hands.
“He uses the ball very well and we are all looking forward to witnessing Ian flourish as a professional.”
Full interview with Ian coming soon on Hatters Player.
Meanwhile, here's Ian scoring an over-head kick...as you do.