What could the immediate future look like for Luton Town attacker John McAtee?

John McAtee is primarily a forward, operating as a second striker or attacking midfielder. He popped up with four goals and four assists last season, averaging a contribution every 236 minutes. McAtee has had an impressive start to his pre-season, scoring a beautiful curling effort from outside the area and then assisting for Dion Pereira in Luton's 3-1 win against Peterborough. Although, he will need to keep this vein of form going if he he wishes to challenge the likes of Elijah Adebayo, Carlton Morris, Joe Taylor, and Cauley Woodrow.

On top of this, with the transfer window in full swing rumours are swirling about Rob Edwards’ intentions to strengthen his frontline. The search for a potent goalscorer comes as no surprise, given the club's aspirations to compete at the highest level. Some notable names are Josef Martinez, Tom Cannon, and Ross Stewart.

McAtee has developed his skills, faced off against strong defenders, and experienced the intense competition of lower-league football after spending time last year playing in the difficult atmosphere of League Two. Undoubtedly, the difficulties he has endured in this situation have toughened his character, Grimsby manager Paul Hurst touched on this in his parting message saying ‘He's been great and we've been great for him. He's needed managing at times, and he'll accept that, but he's got great character.’

What will Luton Town do with John McAtee for the 2023/24 season?

Given the already immense competition in the squad in the forward areas, I think it is likely that McAtee will go out on loan again, this time likely to a competitive League One club – similarly to his teammate Elliot Thorpe. With this move, he will be able to test his skills against opponents of higher standing, which will hasten his development.

JM must take advantage of every chance while on loan to demonstrate his abilities. His confidence will increase, and Rob Edwards' attention will be drawn to him if he consistently puts on impressive performances. Elijah Adebayo and Joe Taylor are examples of how you can get the chance to play in the starting XI if you perform well in the lower divisions.

Featured image: Copyright of Gareth Owen/LTFC