17 Apr 2009

The skipper was given the award for an inspired display in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy final, where he picked his side up from the setback of an early goal, to rouse his troops to an historic win.

Nicholls, who lifted the trophy of silverware in an iconic image for the club, said his personal accolade was worth more if it was shared around his team mates.

“I will definitely share the award with the lads, because that is what we are all about here.

“It was a massive achievement for the club to win the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy. I hope the fans are really happy, because without them, there would be no Luton Town.”

Nicholls also paid tribute to new cult hero Claude Gnakpa, after the Frenchman came off the bench to grab the winning goal in extra time.

“We were three minutes away from winning, and then Chris McCann scored a fantastic goal. I told him how good I thought it was when the game restarted again.

“But then we had a super-sub in Claude. I am proud for Claude, and everybody will remember his name now, which is great.

“He has played in different positions this season. He has played in defence, but I don’t think we’ll see him back there again for a while!”

Johnstone's. Bringing colour to the beauitful game