Howells pays tribute to Hatters fans

The 25-year-old, who made his debut as a 17-year-old back in May 2008, will be leaving this season after his contract wasn’t renewed.

Howells, who got a superb reception when leaving the pitch at the end of Saturday’s 4-1 win over Exeter City, said: “The fans mean the world to me.

“I try and give as much time and respect them as much I can, because since day one, when I made my debut, they’ve always backed me and always supported me.

“Luton Town is known for the fans and it’s incredible the fans they get away from home and at home games, it’s amazing and they’ll always have that base.

“Hopefully that stadium goes through in 2020 and they’ll even have more fans and it will be brilliant.”

Although Town’s hopes for a new ground is still four years away, Howells admitted he had cast an eye on running out at Power Court, amongst other milestones, should Luton move in at their preferred destination.

He continued: “Of course it was an aim, everything was an aim.

“Trying to be at the club for 10 years, which is rare these days, to get a testimonial and that would have been amazing for me to experience something like that.

“I just wanted to play as many games as I could, maybe get close to an all time record of appearances at Luton and felt everything was in the right place at the right time.

“But I’ve got to respect the decision that Luton want to move in different direction, that’s not an issue at all.

“I would have liked to know a bit earlier as now I’ve got to providing for my little boy at the end of the day and have got to find another job, so it’s football.”

On what his plans are now. Howells added: “I’m going to give the knee a rest, as I worked hard to get back fit from injury.

“So I’ll have a couple off weeks of just chilling out, getting my head down and from there get ready for next year.

“I’m not sure where it’s going to take me yet.

“I had al ong time in the Conference and I don’t wish to go down there if possible.

“I think I deserve enough to stay in the Football League and fingers crossed I can get somewhere that will be good for me and the right fit for me too.”