Luton Town manager Jack Wilshere faces a nervous wait over the availability of veteran striker Nahki Wells for Sunday’s showpiece Vertu Trophy final against Stockport County.
The Hatters are set to travel to Wembley for a high-stakes encounter, but the fitness of their 35-year-old talisman remains the primary concern following an injury scare during the Easter period.
Wells was handed a starting role during Town’s commanding 3-0 League One victory over AFC Wimbledon on Easter Monday. The afternoon began with a significant "what if" moment when the Bermudian international failed to convert a gilt-edged opportunity to open the scoring. Kasey Palmer had provided an inch-perfect delivery, but Wells was unable to apply the finishing touch to break the deadlock.
The missed chance was quickly followed by a more serious blow for the visitors. With only 16 minutes on the clock, Wells was forced off the pitch after sustaining a groin injury, casting immediate doubt over his participation in this weekend's final.
Wilshere, who has overseen a resurgent period for the Kenilworth Road club, confirmed that the medical staff will monitor the forward's progress right up until the eleventh hour.
Luton are seeking to add silverware to what has already been a promising campaign in the third tier, but the loss of Wells’ experience and goal-scoring pedigree would be a significant setback. Stockport County, meanwhile, will be buoyed by the uncertainty in the Luton camp as they prepare for their own trip to the capital.
A late fitness test is expected on Sunday morning to determine if the striker can lead the line or if Wilshere will be forced to reshuffle his attacking options for the Wembley showpiece.
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