Jack Wilshere celebrated his first success as a technical director, after Luton Town’s victory over Stockport County with a score of 3-1 in the EFL Trophy final.
The former Arsenal and England midfielder, who won two FA Cups during his playing career, now adds a trophy in his debut season as a coach. Goals from Emilio Lawrence and a brace from Nahki Wells were key to the victory.
Wilshere aims to revitalize the club, after Luton was relegated from the Premier League in 2024, currently sitting in tenth place in League One.
Luton’s tenth appearance at Wembley provided another memorable moment, adding to the victory in the League Cup final against Arsenal in 1988 and the triumph in the Championship play-off final against Coventry in 2023.
For Stockport, it was a disappointing day at the national stadium, having only won once in seven appearances and not having beaten Luton in 18 matches since 1968. Furthermore, Stockport has lost all three EFL Trophy finals in which it has participated.Referee Martin Coy made a crucial decision by not awarding a penalty to Luton in the second minute.
Stockport took the lead in the 11th minute thanks to Adama Sidibeh, who took advantage of a pass from Odin Bailey and beat the defense to score a goal.
Sidibeh scored his eighth goal since joining Stockport in January and has scored in the last four games.
Luton responded, and Stockport defender Ethan Pye deflected a cross from Kal Naismith onto the post.
They tied in the 22nd minute when Jordan Clark assisted Lawrence, who scored a goal with a powerful shot.
The veteran striker Wells, 35, completed the comeback in the 39th minute, after controlling a cross from Naismith and scoring.
Luton could have extended their lead before halftime, but Ben Osborn made a timely tackle to prevent the goal.
In the second half, Clark came close to scoring the third goal for Luton, which finally arrived in added time.
