Kioso urged to push new signing Bree for full back slot by Hatters chief

Defender Peter Kioso has been urged by Luton manager Nathan Jones to push new addition James Bree as much as he can for the right back berth at Kenilworth Road this term.

The 21-year-old ex-Dunstable Town defender was signed by former boss Graeme Jones from National League outfit Hartlepool last season in the January transfer window.

He made his debut as a stoppage time substitute in the 1-0 win at Hull City after the campaign resumed as Town stayed in the Championship, and has caught the eye with some attacking displays in Luton's recent warm up games.

Although Bree is expected to take the full back slot after joining from Aston Villa this week, when asked about Kioso's chances of battling for the position, Jones said: "We've been very happy with him.

"I knew when I came in he had something, because I watched him prior to being here.

"Then since I've come in, he's very diligent, wants to get up to the level very quickly and I really like him, how he defends, he's committed.

"We've given him a little bit more structure, he's done well in the games, every game we've tested him he's done well at, so we're very happy.

"It's about exposing him a little bit more and we want him to push Bree as much as he possibly can, if he does that, then he'll have a future."

Another player challenging for a place at full back, or in the centre of defence, along with midfield, is the versatile Martin Cranie, who at 33, is 12 years Kioso's senior.

Jones added: "We could play him anywhere and he gives us a real high level of performance.

"Every good squad needs that player who can be very versatile and especially because we like to work with a tight squad.

"Martin is a very popular character, very unassuming, no trouble, doesn’t cause any problems and he’s a great lad to have around.

"His versatility, his experience and, more than anything, his quality is what what we need, so we’re delighted.