Ex-Luton and Manchester United keeper Carrick passes away
Stopper played four times for the Hatters in the 1972-73 campaign
Former Luton goalkeeper Willie Carrick has sadly passed away at the age of 70.
The stopper moved to Kenilworth Road from Manchester United in 1972, making four Division Two appearances during the following season, with Town remaining unbeaten in all of them.
He then featured for Chelmsford City, while becoming manager of Witham Town and Basildon United, as a statement on the Hatters’ website said: “Born in Dublin, Willie was one of the many boys hooked out of junior football and whisked straight over to Old Trafford to join Manchester United.
“After five years there, during which time he had signed professional forms at the age of 18, the young goalkeeper found himself down the pecking order and so took up the offer by Luton manager Harry Haslam to move to Kenilworth Road in the summer of 1972.
“Unfortunately, he found his opportunities at Luton limited to four league outings in the 1972/73 season, including the brilliant televised 2-2 home draw with Burnley
“With Graham Horn coming on the scene to vie with number one Keith Barber, Carrick moved on to Chelmsford where he made over 250 appearances.
“After playing for several other sides in Essex and Hertfordshire and also having spells as manager of Witham Town and Basildon United he then worked for Proctor and Gamble in Thurrock for many years.
“Our condolences go out to all his family and friends.”
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Nakamba’s Luton Town Return: Transfer Hangs in the Balance
This comes after his pivotal role in escorting the Hatters to a hard-earned Premier League promotion during an initials Aston Villa to Luton Town Move: A Hitch in the Making
Nakamba’s Second Swing at Kenilworth Road
Aston Villa’s Zimbabwean midfielder, Marvelous Nakamba, stands on the brink of a return to Luton Town. This comes after his pivotal role in escorting the Hatters to a hard-earned Premier League promotion during an initial loan spell. However, his potential transfer is not without hitches, with complications arising over the contractual terms.
Given Nakamba’s position as surplus to requirements at Villa Park, he has received a signal from Unai Emery for a departure. The move is seen as a step to advance his career. The Daily Express has confirmed that both Villa and Luton are currently negotiating the transfer, which is likely to be wrapped up once the player is back from Zimbabwe.
The Wage Impasse
Sky Sports Lyall Thomas has brought a different perspective to the table. He contends that Nakamba’s wage demands pose a significant hurdle for Luton Town, especially if the club seeks a long-term contract with him. Nevertheless, Luton Town remains committed to securing the deal and is willing to consider another loan spell if the wage structure cannot be agreed upon. Villa, conversely, is more inclined towards an outright sale.
Fan Favourite Nakamba and Luton’s Top-flight Journey
Marvelous Nakamba endeared himself to Luton Town supporters, making 17 appearances in the Championship during the latter half of the previous season. His performances were instrumental in leading the club to a playoff spot
Luton Town had to overcome the challenge of both Sunderland and Coventry City to secure their first top-flight promotion since 1982. Nakamba’s tireless work rate was integral to this achievement, further cementing his place as a fan favourite.
The Anticipated Transfer Fee
Transfermarkt values the 29-year-old midfielder at roughly £3.45 million. However, the exact fee required to finalise Nakamba’s move from Aston Villa to Luton Town remains uncertain. As we await further developments, it’s clear that Nakamba’s return to Kenilworth Road hinges on resolving the ‘awkward’ contractual terms.
